University of Kashan Journal of Nanostructures 2251-7871 15 1 2025 01 01 Synthesis and Characterisation of Zein-Coated Magnesium Oxide (zMgO) Nano-Gel 336 343 114827 10.22052/JNS.2025.01.032 EN Ban Zuhair Ahmed Department of Periodontics, College of Dentistry, Ashur University, Baghdad, Iraq Firas Bashir Hashim AL-Taweel Department of Periodontics, College of Dentistry, Ashur University, Baghdad, Iraq Abdalbseet A Fatalla Department of Prosthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Baghdad, Iraq 0000-0001-5320-8559 Journal Article 2024 10 20 This pioneering research achieved a breakthrough in the field of zein-based metal oxide (MO) gels with the development of a biocompatible zein-coated magnesium oxide (zMgO) nanoparticle (NP) gel, offering a promising avenue for integration into medical devices and highly efficient drug delivery systems. The research methodology comprised synthesising ultrafine MgO NPs with a zein coating and gel preparations at varying concentrations. The resulting materials were extensively characterised using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force scanning electron microscopy (AF-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping, and water contact angle (WCA) measurements. The findings from AF-SEM and EDX mapping revealed a uniform and consistent material dispersion, and WCA measurements indicated a hydrophilic surface characteristic. Additionally, FTIR spectra analysis suggested the absence of unforeseen interactions or the formation of new compounds during the synthesis process or in conjunction with zein. In conclusion, this study introduces a groundbreaking development in the form of zein-coated MO gels known for their biocompatibility. These innovative nanostructures have enormous potential for medical applications and the design of efficient and safe drug delivery systems, promising both effectiveness and safety in various medical, dental contexts. https://jns.kashanu.ac.ir/article_114827_56cdcebd9fe954e788e96ab59560145f.pdf