Antiplasmodial Activity of Green-Synthesized MgO Nanoparticles Using Achillea millefolium Against Chloroquine-Resistant and-Sensitive Plasmodium falciparum.

BACKGROUND

Resistance to antimalarial medications, particularly in Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum), has emerged as a significant challenge, highlighting the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. Green-synthesized magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) represent a promising approach to therapeutic interventions. This study presents one of the first detailed evaluations of green-synthesized MgO NPs derived from Achillea millefolium (A. millefolium) against both chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (K1) P. falciparum strains.

METHODS

In this study, MgO NPs were biosynthesized using A. millefolium extracts with varying solvent ratios. The nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, FESEM, and DLS techniques. Cytotoxicity was assessed via MTT and hemolysis assays. Their antiplasmodial efficacy was evaluated in vitro against chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and -resistant (K1) P. falciparum strains.

RESULTS

The synthesized MgO NPs displayed quasi-spherical morphology and nanoscale size. Among tested formulations, the most effective showed IC50 values of 0.17 mg/ml for the 3D7 strain and 0.76 mg/ml for the K1 strain, indicating significant antiplasmodial activity.

CONCLUSION

Green-synthesized MgO NPs using A. millefolium demonstrated potent antiplasmodial activity at low IC50 concentrations, showing efficacy against both chloroquine-sensitive and -resistant P. falciparum strains. These findings highlight their promise as plant-based nanotherapeutics for malaria treatment.