Green fabrication and biological evaluation of glucose-conjugated silver nanoparticles derived from Bixa orellana seeds

This study reports a novel bioencapsulation approach for the synthesis of glucose-stabilized silver nanoparticles (BOAg NPs) using Bixa orellana seed extract. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, FESEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, and DLS/zeta potential analysis. A characteristic surface plasmon resonance peak was observed at 432 nm, while microscopic analysis revealed predominantly spherical nanoparticles with an average size of 15–21 nm and good colloidal stability (− 14 mV). GC–MS analysis confirmed the presence of phytochemicals, including fatty acid derivatives, phenolic compounds, and terpenoid-related constituents, supporting their role as reducing and capping agents. Biological evaluation demonstrated strong antioxidant activity, significant dose-dependent α-amylase inhibition exceeding that of metformin, and notable antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus (MIC: 75–100 µg/mL). Molecular docking studies showed a favorable binding affinity (− 7.33 kcal/mol) with key catalytic residues (ASP197 and ASP300) of α-amylase, supporting the observed inhibitory activity. The study highlights the synergistic role of glucose and phytoconstituents in nanoparticle formation and stabilization. Overall, these findings provide mechanistic insight into nanoparticle-enzyme interactions and suggest the potential of BOAg NPs as multifunctional agents for therapeutic applications.