Green Phytogenic Fabrication Of Senps: Characterization And Applications

Abstract

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) have attracted significant interest due to their unique redox and biological activities in biomedical, agricultural, and environmental contexts. Green, plant-mediated methods for synthesizing SeNPs leverage plant extracts rich in phytochemicals to reduce selenium salts and cap the resulting nanoparticles, providing an eco-friendly and biocompatible alternative to conventional chemical routes. Such methods often yield SeNPs with enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This review systematically examines recent progress in plant-based SeNP fabrication, including the underlying reduction mechanisms, synthesis parameters, and physicochemical characterization techniques. We also highlight key findings on SeNP bioactivities – for example, their potent ROS-scavenging antioxidant effects and cytotoxic action against cancer cells – and discuss applications in health, agriculture, and pollution remediation. Finally, challenges related to toxicity, scalability, and standardization are addressed to guide future research.