In-silico Analysis of Influence of Foliar application of Silver Nanoparticles on Chlorophyll Proteins of Cabbage

Abstract

This study was designed to explore how the interaction between green silver nanoparticles and chlorophyll proteins is still poorly understood. This study investigated the molecular binding of neem-derived saponin-coated AgNPs with the water-soluble chlorophyll protein of Brassica oleracea. The objective was to better understand the mechanism that may contribute to improved photosynthetic performance following nanoparticle application. We proposed that saponin-coated AgNPs could form stable interactions with WSCP and potentially influence its structural integrity, particularly under stress conditions. WSCP was chosen because of its well-established role in chlorophyll stabilization and photoprotective functions within plant cells. Molecular docking revealed strong binding between saponin from neem-derived silver nanoparticles and the water-soluble chlorophyll protein of cabbage, supported by multiple non-covalent interactions and a favorable binding affinity (−7.8). This interaction provides a molecular explanation for enhanced photosynthetic performance following AgNP application and underscores the potential of neem-based green nanotechnology in sustainable agriculture.