Phytochemical-Mediated Synthesis of AgNPs Using Caulerpa peltata: Photoluminescent Analysis and Cytotoxic Potential

Cervical cancer remains a major global health concern, contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. In recent years, the biogenic synthesis of nanoparticles has emerged as a promising approach for cancer therapy, advancing targeted drug delivery and therapeutic applications. This study focuses on the phytochemical composition, synthesis, characterization, and cytotoxicity assay of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from the green seaweed Caulerpa peltata, which were synthesized by reacting 1 mM silver nitrate with the ethanolic extract of C. peltata under dark conditions, with gentle agitation for 1-10 h. The formation of AgNPs and the involvement of biomolecules in the synthesis process were confirmed through UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The cytotoxic potential of the biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated using the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay, demonstrating significant inhibition of cervical cancer cell growth. The determined IC₅₀ value of 500 μg/mL was only 25.71%, indicating a dose- and time-dependent reduction in cell viability. These findings highlight the potential of C. peltata-mediated AgNPs as an eco-friendly alternative for anticancer therapy, particularly in the treatment of cervical cancer.