Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Agaricus bisporus for Advanced Glycoconjugate Recognition and Biomedical Sensing

Abstract

The demand for safe, biocompatible nanomaterials in Glycotechnology and biomedical diagnostics has driven increasing interest in green-synthesised metal oxide nanoparticles. In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were synthesised using Agaricus bisporus (button mushroom) extract as a natural reducing and stabilising agent. The phytochemicals present in the mushroom—primarily polysaccharides, phenolics, and proteins—enabled a rapid, eco-friendly nanoparticle synthesis pathway. The ZnONPs were characterised using UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, SEM, TEM, and zeta potential analysis. Results confirmed the successful formation of crystalline, hexagonal wurtzite ZnONPs with an average particle size of 20–40 nm and high colloidal stability. The biocompatible nature of the mushroom-derived ZnONPs was evaluated through in vitro cytotoxicity assays, hemocompatibility tests, and ROS generation studies, all confirming low toxicity and excellent bio-safety. Finally, their potential in Glycotechnology was demonstrated by evaluating the nanoparticles for glycan sensing, glycoprotein immobilisation, and electrochemical biosensor platforms. The findings suggest that Agaricus bisporus-derived ZnONPs represent a promising material for next-generation glycan-based biosensors and biomedical devices.