New approaches of green silver nanoparticles for cancer and biomedical applications: a review

The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has recently gained prominence as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional physical and chemical methods. Utilizing biological entities such as plant extracts, bacteria, fungi, and biomolecules, the method acts by both reducing and stabilizing mechanisms. It does not use any harmful chemical substances, thus proving to be eco-friendly. Green-synthesized AgNPs exhibit enhanced biocompatibility, stability, and targeted delivery of the drug due to the use of naturally derived surface capping agents. These unique characteristics allow selective interference with cancer cells. The mechanism involved is the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the induction of apoptosis, DNA damage, and cell cycle arrest. Green AgNPs also possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial, catalytic, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the fact that they can be utilised in biomedical fields such as drug delivery, bioimaging, biosensing, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Recent advancements have focused on controlling NP size, shape, and surface functionality to maximize efficacy while simultaneously minimizing cytotoxicity. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest green synthesis strategies, their characterizations, and the molecular mechanisms by which they exert anticancer effects. Recent patents highlight the clinical potential of AgNPs in cancer therapy. US Patent 12201650 (2025) describes green synthesis using Caralluma sinaica, while other patents (WO2007001453, US7462753) outline adaptable biomedical formulations. Studies on biogenic AgNPs also show significant tumor inhibition and selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells. Furthermore, the article discusses current biomedical applications and critically evaluates the limitations, such as reproducibility, toxicity concerns, and scalability for clinical translation. Addressing these challenges is essential for the integration of green AgNPs into mainstream cancer therapeutics. The convergence of nanotechnology and biologically derived synthesis opens promising avenues for the development of safe, effective, and environmentally sustainable medical innovations.