Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Callus Cultures of Vigna radiata

Objectives: To study the potential of callus cultures of Vigna radiata for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles. Methods: Callus cultures of Vigna radiata were established in MS media and the aqueous extract of callus cultures was used for biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using 1 mM AgNO₃ at ambient temperature.The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Findings: This is the first report of use of callus cultures of Vigna radiata for the biogenesis of silver nanoparticles.The synthesis was rapid and completed in 2 hours. UV-visible spectrophotometry revealed an absorbance peak at 455 nm. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of a high density of spherical or ellipsoidal silver nanoparticles. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of phenolics in the extract which could have played a role in the formation of silver nanoparticles. The findings are important since this is a novel approach and there are very few reports of synthesis of silver nanoparticles using callus cultures. Application: Callus cultures are more suitable for biosynthesis of bio-compatible nanoparticles as compared to microbes or plant parts since these are generated axenically and are renewable resources that are easy to authenticate.