Eco-friendly fabrication of magnesium oxide nanoparticles from Clitoria ternatea and their influence on plant growth parameters of Vigna mungo, soil nutrient dynamics and computational analysis

Abstract

Metal oxide-based nanoparticles, such as magnesium oxide (MgO), are highly efficient and biocompatible, with applications in biomedical fields like drug delivery. However, their ecological safety and biosafety need to be assessed for responsible use and disposal, considering various environmental factors. This study investigates the phytotoxicity of magnesium oxide nanoparticles synthesised using butterfly pea flower (Clitoria ternatea) extract through a modified co-precipitation method. The synthesis was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy with a distinct absorbance peak at 340 nm. Morphological analysis through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed agglomerated, porous nanoparticles, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed their crystalline nature with an average size of 33.56 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed characteristic MgO bonding and hydroxyl group presence, indicating the nanoparticles’ high chemical reactivity. Ecotoxicity assessments by phytotoxicity studies demonstrated no distinct effects on Vigna mungo seedlings' physiology. Moreover, MgO NPs positively influenced soil health by increasing the concentration of essential nutrients (N, P, K) without altering pH or electrical conductivity. Rhizosphere microflora analysis showed increased bacterial colony formation, improving soil microbial activity. Endophytic microflora in plant tissues also exhibited higher bacterial colony growth. These findings confirm that the fabricated nanoparticles are biocompatible and environmentally safe, making them a promising material for diverse applications with minimal ecological impact. This study employs CB-Dock molecular docking to evaluate MgO interactions with plant growth-related proteins (7JRG, 7JRO, 2CV6). Favourable interaction and cavity detection scores suggest potential surface-level interactions. These results highlight MgO’s capacity to modulate protein function and support plant development.