Silver Nanoparticles as Anticancer Agents: Mechanisms Insight, Current Studies, and Limitations

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biotechnology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess diverse biological activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
• Evidence suggests AgNPs exert anticancer effects via oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis.
• Inhibition of specific cellular pathways is another key mechanism for AgNP anticancer activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize recent findings on the anticancer potential of silver nanoparticles.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying AgNP anticancer activity.
• To discuss the challenges and future strategies for the clinical translation of AgNPs in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vivo and in vitro studies on AgNPs and their anticancer effects.
• Analysis of various mechanisms of action, including cellular damage and pathway inhibition.
• Evaluation of green-synthesized AgNPs for enhanced biocompatibility and selective cytotoxicity.

Main Results:

• AgNPs demonstrate significant anticancer effects through multiple cellular and molecular mechanisms.
• Green-synthesized AgNPs show improved biocompatibility and selective toxicity towards cancer cells.
• Strategies like size/shape optimization and surface functionalization can enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity.

Conclusions:

• AgNPs hold considerable promise as anticancer agents, acting through diverse mechanisms.
• Addressing AgNP toxicity, non-specific damage, and long-term safety is crucial for clinical application.
• Further research and strategic optimization are needed to overcome challenges and advance AgNP-based cancer therapies.