Phytofabrication, characterization, and evaluation of novel bioinspired selenium–iron (Se–Fe) nanocomposites using Allium sativum extract for bio-potential applications

Abstract Green nano-chemistry is an advanced research route covering eco-friendly fabrication approaches for synthesizing bimetallic nanocomposites (NCs) to enhance their therapeutic properties. The current study aims to phytofabrication, characterization, and bio-potential evaluation of novel selenium–iron (Se–Fe) NCs by utilizing garlic extract. The morphological and physicochemical features of Se–Fe NCs were evaluated by UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, and Zeta potential analysis. The findings showed that garlic cloves extract was a promising capping and reducing agent for the formulation of the NC. To explore the antioxidant potential of a bioinspired Se–Fe NC, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and reducing power assays were performed. Furthermore, antioxidant efficacy was confirmed through antimicrobial activities against clinical pathogens. Phytosynthesized Se–Fe NCs (25, 50, 75, and 100 ppm) showed a dose-dependent response. Higher concentrations of Se–Fe NCs impose a more potent antioxidant and antimicrobial potential. The astonishing findings suggest that phytochemicals in Allium sativum extract are useful reducing agents in the formulation of well-defined Se–Fe NCs, and such NCs could act as competitive inhibitors against pathogens. To the extent of our understanding, Se–Fe NC is the first time synthesized and demonstrates the distinctiveness of green chemistry and will give multifunctional applications in nano-biotechnology.