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A Systematic Review of Biosynthesized Metallic Nanoparticles as a Promising Anti-Cancer-Strategy
Anisa Andleeb1, Aneeta Andleeb2, Salman Asghar3
1Plant Cell and Tissue Culture Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan.
Cancers
|July 2, 2021
Summary
Bio-mediated metallic nanoparticles (NPs) offer a promising, safer alternative to conventional cancer treatments. These nanoparticles, including silver, gold, zinc, and copper, combat cancer by inducing cell death pathways.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Nanotechnology
- Cancer Research
- Materials Science
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading global cause of death, with conventional chemotherapy exhibiting limitations like poor bioavailability and severe side effects.
- Nanotechnology offers innovative solutions in biomedicine, with bio-mediated nanoparticles (NPs) emerging as safe, cost-effective, and biocompatible alternatives.
- Metallic NPs, specifically silver (Ag), gold (Au), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu), are gaining attention for their anti-cancer properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the biosynthesis of Ag, Au, Zn, and Cu NPs for cancer therapy.
- To elucidate the anti-cancer mechanisms of these metallic NPs, focusing on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
- To highlight nanotoxicity, future prospects, and opportunities in nano-therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in the biosynthesis of metallic nanoparticles (Ag, Au, Zn, Cu).
- Analysis of the mechanisms of action of these NPs in cancer treatment, including ROS generation.
- Evaluation of nanotoxicity and future potential of nano-therapeutics.
Main Results:
- Bio-mediated metallic NPs (Ag, Au, Zn, Cu) demonstrate significant anti-cancer potential.
- The anti-cancer effects are primarily mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), triggering autophagic, apoptotic, and necrotic cell death pathways.
- These NPs present a safer profile with fewer side effects compared to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs.
Conclusions:
- Bio-synthesized metallic nanoparticles represent a promising frontier in cancer nano-therapeutics.
- Understanding their mechanisms of action and addressing nanotoxicity are crucial for clinical translation.
- Further research into nano-therapeutics holds significant potential for improved cancer treatment strategies.
