Applications of Pteridophytes in Nanotechnology: a class that has not yet explored to the extent of its potential

Abstract

In comparison to other vascular plants, pteridophytes are still understudied despite being regarded as a superior source of medicine since prehistoric times. Nanoparticles created using green processes are a rapidly growing field. Plant metabolites and other natural chemicals are used in green techniques to regulate NPs for medicinal and other industrial uses. For various biological and medical applications where NP purity is critical, biogenic reduction of metal precursors to yield matched NPs is an option that is economical, environmentally friendly, and a process that is free of chemical impurities. The green-synthesized nanoparticles could take advantage of their enhanced antibacterial and antioxidant characteristics (in comparison to nanoparticles generated by other processes) and offer a significant alternative against drug-resistant infections and healthcare-associated diseases, as well as other sorts of applications. The purpose of the current review is to provide an overview of the potential applications of pteridophytes in nanotechnology, as well as the challenges that remain and potential solutions that may emerge in the future. Therefore, a compilation of medicinally significant pteridophytes utilized by various ethnic minorities and their potential application in the field of nanotechnology has been developed.

Keywords

• Nanoparticles
• phytoconstituents
• green synthesis
• characterization
• cytotoxicity
• larvicidal activity