Synthesis, spectral characterization and free radical scavenging activity of zinc-genistein nano complex

Abstract

Metal-flavanoid complexes could be of interest in the medical field. The most studied dietary phytoestrogen (plant compounds that may resemble estrogen or modify its effects in the human body) is genistein, a naturally occurring isoflavone. Zinc, an essential trace element, is involved in various physiological processes in the human body and can protect against oxidative stress in certain tissues and conditions. The formation of metal flavonoid complexes can improve the stability and bioavailability of flavonoids while influencing their biological activity. The purpose of this study is to quantify the antioxidant capabilities of the zinc-genistein complex (ZGC) compared to flavonoids alone. Zinc chloride and genistein were combined in a modified chelation process to create ZGC. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), UV (ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy), ¹HNMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance), atomic absorption spectra (AAS), mass spectrometry (MS) and elemental analysis were used to characterize the metal-flavanoid complex produced. When the characterized ZGC was tested for its antioxidant activity, it was found that ZGC had an IC₅₀ value of 119.32 mcg, while genistein had an IC₅₀ value of 908.34 mcg. This indicates that ZGC has greater antioxidant activity than genistein alone.