| Abstract Scope |
Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) offer unique optical and biological properties, but conventional synthesis methods involve toxic chemicals. This study presents a green, microwave-assisted synthesis of blue-green emitting AuNCs using Aloe africana leaf extract. By optimizing gold salt concentration, pH, and extract ratio, ~2 nm AuNCs were obtained under optimal conditions (0.01 M Au, pH 12, 1:2 ratio), emitting at 450 nm with a 2.17% quantum yield. FTIR analysis confirmed phenolic and carbonyl groups on the cluster surface. The nanoclusters were stable for 48 h at 37 °C, showed a DPPH binding constant of 1.47 × 10⁻², and exhibited antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. Cytotoxicity tests on THP‑1 cells revealed high biocompatibility (~90% viability) with preserved RNA integrity. These results highlight the potential of Aloe-derived AuNCs for applications in bioimaging, molecular delivery, and antimicrobial therapies. |