An Assessment of the Cyto-Genotoxicity Effects of Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles and ATCBRA Insecticide on the Root System of .

We aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using (cardamom) extracts and assess the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the cardamom extract, -AgNPs, and the insecticide ATCBRA-commonly used for pest control-on the root system of (broad bean). The chemical composition of the aqueous cardamom extract was identified and quantified using GC-MS, revealing a variety of bioactive compounds also present in cardamom essential oil. These included α-terpinyl acetate (21.3-44.3%), 1,8-cineole (10.7-28.4%), and linalool (6.4-8.6%). The successful green synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed through various micro-spectroscopic techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). UV-Vis analysis showed a strong peak between 420 and 430 nm, indicating the presence of AgNPs. TEM imaging revealed that the synthesized -AgNPs were monodispersed, primarily spherical, and semi-uniform in shape, with minimal aggregation. EDS analysis further confirmed the composition of the nanoparticles, with -AgNPs comprising around 60.5% by weight. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by measuring the mitotic index (MI), and genotoxicity was assessed by observing chromosomal aberrations (CAs). The roots of were treated for 24 and 48 h with varying concentrations of ATCBRA pesticide (0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.7%), aqueous cardamom extract (3%, 4%, 5%, and 6%), and green-synthesized -AgNPs (12, 25, and 60 mg). The cytogenetic analysis of MI and CA in the meristematic root tips indicated an improvement in the evaluated parameters with the cardamom extract. However, a marked reduction in mitotic activity was observed with both ATCBRA and -AgNP treatments across both time points, highlighting potential cytotoxic and genotoxic effects.