Exploring the influence of L-amino acid side chain variations on MNPs: A comprehensive investigation of formation dynamics and biological functionality

Abstract

This research investigates the influence of L-amino acid side chain variations on iron oxide nanoparticles, focusing on their formation dynamics and biological functionalities. Utilizing a co-precipitation method, magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized and functionalized with L-glutamic acid, L-glutamine, L-glycine, and L-asparagine. The resultant amino acid-modified MNPs (AA@MNP) were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM), revealing distinct chemical, morphological, and crystalline properties. The AA@MNP demonstrated superparamagnetic behavior and enhanced biocompatibility. Their biomedical applications were evaluated, revealing significant antioxidant activity, Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) binding affinity, and antimicrobial efficacy against E. coli and C. albicans. Notably, Gly@MNPs exhibited both antibacterial and antifungal properties, while Glu@MNPs showed marked antibacterial activity. Furthermore, cytotoxicity assays on A549 lung cancer cells indicated promising anticancer potential, with all AA@MNP exhibiting substantial growth inhibition. This research underscores the potential of amino acid functionalized MNPs in diverse biomedical applications, including drug delivery, bioimaging, and biosensing, attributed to their tailored surface properties and biological interactions.