Biosynthesis of spinel nickel ferrite nanowhiskers and their biomedical applications

Abstract

Greener methods for the synthesis of various nanostructures with well-organized characteristics and biomedical applicability have demonstrated several advantages, including simplicity, low toxicity, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness. Spinel nickel ferrite (NiFe2O4) nanowhiskers with rod-like structures were synthesized using a simple and green method; these nanostructures were evaluated by X-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray energy diffraction spectroscopy. Additionally, the prepared nanowhiskers could significantly reduce the survival of Leishmania major promastigotes, at a concentration of 500 mu g/mL; the survival of promastigotes was reduced to similar or equal to 26. According to the results obtained from MTT test (in vitro), it can be proposed that further studies should be conducted to evaluate anti-leishmaniasis activity of these types of nanowhiskers in animal models.