GREEN SYNTHESIS OF METALLIC NANOPARTICLES (Ag, Au and Cu) AND DETERMINATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC ACTIVITY OF EXTRACTS OBTAINED FROM GUARANA (Paullinia cupana) RESIDUES (BARK/PULP)

• Grant number: 22/04066-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: February 01, 2023
• End date: July 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Process Industries
• Principal Investigator: Fábio Rodolfo Miguel Batista
• Grantee: Gustavo Henrique Barroso da Silva
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Lorena , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The main objective of this project is the development of a green route for the production of metallic nanoparticles (Ag, Au and Cu) using as a means of synthesis, extracts obtained from residues (peel/pulp) of guarana production, in addition to investigation of the antitumor activity of these extracts and the nanoparticles produced. The idea of using guarana processing waste aims to minimize the environmental impacts generated by its disposal, in addition to promoting an alternative economic activity for small producers of this fruit. For the development of the project, renewable and non-toxic solvents will be used (ethanol, water and butanol). Analytical techniques involving UV-vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission (TEM), infrared and Gas Chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) will be used to characterize the extracts obtained and for determining the shape and size distribution of metallic nanoparticles. Cell viability assays, also known as cytotoxicity assay, through the reduction of MTT (3-4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), will be used to determine the antitumor activity of the extracts from the bark/pulp of guarana and from the nanoparticles produced (in particular parthia and gold). At the end of the project, it is intended to provide subsidies for the implementation of the proposed activities within a possible embryo of a biorefinery/bioindustry based on guarana, which will allow the improvement of the social, scientific and technological development of the parties involved in the entire production chain of this fruit.