Phyto-synthesized Gold Nanoparticles as Antitumor Agents

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Green Synthesis
• Medicinal Chemistry

Background:

• Phyto-synthesized metal nanoparticles, particularly gold and silver, are extensively researched.
• Medicinal plant extracts are utilized for green synthesis of nanoparticles with various biological activities.
• These nanoparticles exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antitumor, and catalytic effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss research on the anticancer potential of gold nanoparticles synthesized using medicinal plant extracts.
• To focus on selective cytotoxicity against tumor cells and mechanisms of action.
• To analyze in vitro and in vivo assessments from the past five years.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of scientific literature.
• Analysis of studies on phyto-synthesized gold nanoparticles.
• Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo data regarding anticancer effects.

Main Results:

• Gold nanoparticles synthesized from medicinal plants demonstrate selective cytotoxicity towards tumor cells.
• Mechanisms of action for their antitumor effects are being elucidated.
• Evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies highlights their therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• Phyto-synthesized gold nanoparticles show promise for anticancer applications.
• Further extensive in vivo and clinical studies are required.
• Their significance in future medicine is yet to be fully established.