Bio-fabrication of silver nanoparticles by phycocyanin, characterization, in vitro anticancer activity against breast cancer cell line and in vivo cytotxicity

The effect of plasma activated water on antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized by cyanobacterium Alborzia kermanshahica

BACKGROUND

Silver nanoparticles are extensively researched for their antimicrobial properties. Cold atmospheric plasma, containing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, is increasingly used for disinfecting microbes, wound healing, and cancer treatment. Therefore, this study examined the effect of water activated by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma and gliding arc discharge plasma on the antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles from Alborzia kermanshahica.

METHODS

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized using the boiling method, as well as biomass from Alborzia kermanshahica extract grown in water activated by DBD and GA plasma. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated using UV-vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. Additionally, the disk diffusion method was used to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of the manufactured nanoparticles against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

RESULTS

The spectroscopy results verified the presence of silver nanoparticles, indicating their biosynthesis. The highest amount of absorption (1.049) belonged to the nanoparticles synthesized by boiling under GA plasma conditions. Comparing the FTIR spectra of the plasma-treated samples with DBD and GA revealed that the DBD-treated samples had more intense peaks, indicating that the DBD method proved to be more effective in enhancing the functional groups on the silver nanoparticles. The DLS results revealed that the boiling method synthesized silver nanoparticles under DBD plasma treatment had a smaller particle size (149.89 nm) with a PDI of 0.251 compared to the GA method, and the DBD method produced nanoparticles with a higher zeta potential (27.7 mV) than the GA method, indicating greater stability of the biosynthesized nanoparticles. Moreover, the highest antimicrobial properties against E. coli (14.333 ± 0.47 mm) were found in the DBD-treated nanoparticles. TEM tests confirmed that spherical nanoparticles attacked the E. coli bacterial membrane, causing cell membrane destruction and cell death. The GC-MS results showed that compounds like 2-methylfuran, 3-methylbutanal, 2-methylbutanal, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone, benzaldehyde, 2-phenylethanol, and 3-octen-2-ol were much higher in the samples that were treated with DBD compared to the samples that were treated with GA plasma.

CONCLUSION

The research indicated that DBD plasma was more efficient than GA plasma in boosting the antimicrobial characteristics of nanoparticles. These results might be a cornerstone for future advancements in utilizing cold plasma to create nanoparticles with enhanced antimicrobial properties.

Cyanobacterial Silver Nanoparticles and Their Potential Utility-Recent Progress and Prospects: A Review

The current situation involves an increase in interest in nanotechnology, in particular the ways in which it can be applied in the commercial and medical fields. However, traditional methods of synthesizing nanoparticles have some drawbacks, including the generation of harmful byproducts, high energy consumption, and cost. As a result, researchers have shifted their focus to "green" nanoparticle synthesis to circumvent these drawbacks. Because of their exceptional physiochemical properties, silver nanoparticles (Ag Nps) are the noble metal nanoparticles that are used most frequently. The green approach to Ag NP synthesis is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and cost-effective, and it makes use of a variety of biological entities. Cyanobacteria, in particular, have garnered the most attention because of the abundance of bioactive substances that they contain, which serve both as reducing agents and as stabilizing agents during the process of biosynthesis. This review article discusses the current state of cyanobacteria-mediated Ag NP synthesis, the potential mechanisms that are involved, nanoparticle characterization, the various applications of Ag NP in different fields, and their prospects.

Optimization and bio-fabrication of phyto-mediated silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) for antibacterial potential

This report examines the bio-fabrication of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) utilizing AgNO3 and leaf extract of Crataegus monogyna as the precursor material. In order to maximize the antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the reaction conditions for the green fabrication of Ag-NPs were optimized. A one factor at a time approach (volume concentration of extract, volume concentration of AgNO3, pH and temperature) was used to optimize the best condition, and results were assessed through UV-visible spectroscopy and particle size distribution. The results showed that 20 mL of plant extract, 80 mL of AgNO3, pH 08, 100 °C temperature were the optimum reaction conditions under which we obtained the smallest Ag-NPs (7 nm). The scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the spherical and crystalline nature of Ag-NPs. The antibacterial activity assay demonstrated a high antibacterial effect of Ag-NPs against S. aureus, P. mirabilis, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa, and that impact was greater with smaller-sized nanoparticles (7 nm). This study shows that leaf extract of C. monogyna is a possible medium for the green fabrication of Ag-NPs, and control over reaction factors can establish the characteristics and antibacterial effectiveness of Ag-NPs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Biogenic nanoparticles: pioneering a new era in breast cancer therapeutics-a comprehensive review

Breast cancer, a widespread malignancy affecting women globally, often arises from mutations in estrogen/progesterone receptors. Conventional treatments like surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy face limitations such as low efficacy and adverse effects. However, nanotechnology offers promise with its unique attributes like targeted delivery and controlled drug release. Yet, challenges like poor size distribution and environmental concerns exist. Biogenic nanotechnology, using natural materials or living cells, is gaining traction for its safety and efficacy in cancer treatment. Biogenic nanoparticles synthesized from plant extracts offer a sustainable and eco-friendly approach, demonstrating significant toxicity against breast cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. They surpass traditional drugs, providing benefits like biocompatibility and targeted delivery. Thus, this current review summarizes the available knowledge on breast cancer (its types, stages, histopathology, symptoms, etiology and epidemiology) with the importance of using biogenic nanomaterials as a new and improved therapy. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive examination of the challenges and strategies for advancing the industrial utilization of biogenic metal and metal oxide NPs. Additionally; it underscores the potential of plant-mediated synthesis of biogenic NPs as effective therapies for breast cancer, detailing their mechanisms of action, advantages, and areas for further research.

Green synthesis and characterization of AgNPs, liposomal loaded AgNPs and ZnPcS4 photosensitizer for enhanced photodynamic therapy effects in MCF-7 breast cancer cells

Breast cancer remains a formidable challenge in oncology despite significant advancements in treatment modalities. Conventional therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy have been the mainstay in managing breast cancer for decades. However, a subset of patient's experiences treatment failure, leading to disease recurrence and progression. Therefore, this study investigates the therapeutic potential of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using an African medicinal plant (Dicoma anomala methanol root extract) as a reducing agent for combating breast cancer. AgNPs were synthesized using the bottom-up approach and later modified with liposomes (Lip) loaded with photosensitizer (PS) zinc phthalocyanine tetrasulfonate (Lip@ZnPcS4) using thin film hydration method. The successful formation and Lip modification of AgNPs, alongside ZnPcS4, were confirmed through various analytical techniques including UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Following a 24 h treatment period, MCF-7 cells were assessed for viability using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT viability assay), cell death analysis using mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) (ΔΨm), Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-propidium iodide (PI) kit, and caspase- 3, 8 and 9 activities. The experiments were repeated four times (n = 4), and the results were analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 27, with a confidence interval set at 0.95. The synthesized nanoparticles and nanocomplex, including AgNPs, AgNPs-Lip, Lip@ZnPcS4, and AgNPs-Lip@ZnPcS4, exhibited notable cytotoxicity and therapeutic efficacy against MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Notably, the induction of apoptosis, governed by the upregulation of apoptotic proteins i.e., caspase 8 and 9 activities. In addition, caspase 3 was not expressed by MCF-7 cells in both control and experimental groups. Given the challenging prognosis associated with breast cancer, the findings underscore the promise of liposomal nanoformulations in cancer photodynamic therapy (PDT), thus warranting further exploration in clinical settings.

Biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles: A new era in cancer therapy

Cancer remains a global health crisis, claiming countless lives throughout the years. Traditional cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation often bring about severe side effects, underscoring the pressing need for innovative, more efficient, and less toxic therapies. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising technology capable of producing environmentally friendly anticancer nanoparticles. Among various nanoparticle types, metal-based nanoparticles stand out due to their exceptional performance and ease of use in methods of imaging. The widespread accessibility of biological precursors for synthesis based on plants of metal nanoparticles has made large-scale, eco-friendly production feasible. This evaluation provides a summary of the green strategy for synthesizing metal-based nanoparticles and explores their applications. Moreover, this review delves into the potential of phyto-based metal nanoparticles in combating cancer, shedding light on their probable mechanisms of action. These insights are invaluable for enhancing both biomedical and environmental applications. The study also touches on the numerous potential applications of nanotechnology in the field of medicine. Consequently, this research offers a concise and well-structured summary of nanotechnology, which should prove beneficial to researchers, engineers, and scientists embarking on future research endeavors.

"Therapeutic advancements in nanomedicine: The multifaceted roles of silver nanoparticles"

Nanotechnology has the advantages of enhanced bioactivity, reduced toxicity, target specificity, and sustained release and NPs can penetrate cell membranes. The small size of silver nanoparticles, AgNPs, large surface area, and unique physicochemical properties contribute to cell lysis and increased permeability of cell membranes used in the field of biomedicine. Functional precursors integrate with phytochemicals to create distinctive therapeutic properties and the stability of the nanoparticles can be enhanced by Surface coatings and encapsulation methods, The current study explores the various synthesis methods and characterization techniques of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and highlights their intrinsic activity in therapeutic applications, Anti-cancer activity noted at a concentration range of 5-50 μg/ml and angiogenesis is mitigated at a dosage range of 10-50 μg/ml, Diabetes is controlled within the same concentration. Wound healing is improved at concentrations of 10-50 μg/ml and with a typical range of 10-08 μg/ml for bacteria with antimicrobial capabilities. Advancement of silver nanoparticles with a focus on the future use of AgNPs-coated wound dressings and medical devices to decrease the risk of infection. Chemotherapeutic drugs can be administered by AgNPs, which reduces adverse effects and an improvement in treatment outcomes. AgNPs have been found to improve cell proliferation and differentiation, making them beneficial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Our study highlights emerging patterns and developments in the field of medicine, inferring potential future paths.

A novel functionalized CuTi hybrid nanocomposites: facile one-pot mycosynthesis, characterization, antimicrobial, antibiofilm, antifouling and wastewater disinfection performance

BACKGROUND

The continuous progress in nanotechnology is rapid and extensive with overwhelming futuristic aspects. Through modernizing inventive synthesis protocols, a paradigm leapfrogging in novelties and findings are channeled toward fostering human health and sustaining the surrounding environment. Owing to the overpricing and jeopardy of physicochemical synthesizing approaches, the quest for ecologically adequate schemes is incontestable. By developing environmentally friendly strategies, mycosynthesis of nanocomposites has been alluring.

RESULTS

Herein, a novel architecture of binary CuO and TiO2 in nanocomposites form was fabricated using bionanofactory Candida sp., for the first time. For accentuating the structural properties of CuTi nanocomposites (CuTiNCs), various characterization techniques were employed. UV-Vis spectroscopy detected SPR at 350 nm, and XRD ascertained the crystalline nature of a hybrid system. However, absorption peaks at 8, 4.5, and 0.5 keV confirmed the presence of Cu, Ti and oxygen, respectively, in an undefined assemblage of polygonal-spheres of 15-75 nm aggregated in the fungal matrix of biomolecules as revealed by EDX, SEM and TEM. However, FTIR, ζ-potential and TGA reflected long-term stability (- 27.7 mV) of self-functionalized CuTiNCs. Interestingly, a considerable and significant biocide performance was detected at 50 µg/mL of CuTiNCs against some human and plant pathogens, compared to monometallic counterparts. Further, CuTiNCs (200 µg/mL) ceased significantly the development of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans biofilms by 80.3 ± 1.4, 68.7 ± 3.0 and 55.7 ± 3.0%, respectively. Whereas, 64.63 ± 3.5 and 89.82 ± 4.3% antimicrofouling potentiality was recorded for 100 and 200 µg/ml of CuTiNCs, respectively; highlighting their destructive effect against marine microfoulers cells and decaying of their extracellular polymeric skeleton as visualized by SEM. Moreover, CuTiNCs (100 and 200 µg/ml) exerted significantly outstanding disinfection potency within 2 h by reducing the microbial load (i.e., total plate count, mold & yeast, total coliforms and faecal Streptococcus) in domestic and agricultural effluents reached >50%.

CONCLUSION

The synergistic efficiency provided by CuNPs and TiNPs in mycofunctionalized CuTiNCs boosted its recruitment as antiphytopathogenic, antibiofilm, antimicrofouling and disinfectant agent in various realms.

A sustainable green-approach for biofabrication of chitosan nanoparticles, optimization, characterization, its antifungal activity against phytopathogenic Fusarium culmorum and antitumor activity

Chitosan is a natural non-toxic, biocompatible, biodegradable, and mucoadhesive polymer. It also has a broad spectrum of applications such as agriculture, medical fields, cosmetics and food industries. In this investigation, chitosan nanoparticles were produced by an aqueous extract of Cympopogon citratus leaves as a reducing agent. According to the SEM and TEM micrographs, CNPs had a spherical shape, and size ranging from 8.08 to 12.01 nm. CNPs have a positively charged surface with a Zeta potential of + 26 mV. The crystalline feature of CNPs is determined by X-ray diffraction. There are many functional groups, including C꞊C, CH2-OH, C-O, C-S, N-H, CN, CH and OH were detected by FTIR analysis. As shown by the thermogravimetric study, CNPs have a high thermal stability. For the optimization of the green synthesis of CNPs, a Face centered central composite design (FCCCD) with 30 trials was used. The maximum yield of CNPs (13.99 mg CNPs/mL) was produced with chitosan concentration 1.5%, pH 4.5 at 40 °C, and incubation period of 30 min. The antifungal activity of CNPs was evaluated against phytopathogenic fungus; Fusarium culmorum. A 100% rate of mycelial growth inhibition was gained by the application of 20 mg CNPs/mL. The antitumor activity of the green synthesized CNPs was examined using 6 different cell lines, the viability of the cells reduced when the concentration of green synthesized CNPs increased, the IC50 dose of the green synthesized CNPs on the examined cell lines HePG-2, MCF-7, HCT-116, PC-3, Hela and WI-38 was 36.25 ± 2.3, 31.21 ± 2.2, 67.45 ± 3.5, 56.30 ± 3.3, 44.62 ± 2.6 and 74.90 ± 3.8; respectively.

Enhancing phycocyanin yield from Spirulina sp. under salt stress using various extraction methods

Phycocyanin, a blue-coloured pigment, predominantly found and derived from Spirulina sp., has gained researchers' interest due to its vibrant hues and other attractive properties like antioxidant and anti-microbial. However, the lack of reliable and sustainable phycocyanin extraction strategies without compromising the quality has hindered the scaling up of its production processes for commercial purposes. Here in this study, phycocyanin was extracted from wet and dry biomass Spirulina sp., using three different physical cell disruption methods (ultrasonication, homogenization, and freeze-thaw cycles) combined with two different buffers (phosphate buffer and acetate buffer) and water (as control). The result showed that the freeze-thaw method combined with acetate buffer produced the highest yield (25.013 ± 2.572 mg/100 mg) with a purity ratio of 0.806 ± 0.079. Furthermore, when subjected to 30% w/v salt stress, 1.9 times higher phycocyanin yield with a purity ratio of 1.402 ± 0.609 was achieved using the previously optimized extraction method.

Fabrication and Therapeutic Process of a Green Silver-Nanoparticle-Embedded Mucilage Microsphere for Pathogenic-Bacteria-Infected Second-Degree Burn and Excision Wounds

Multidrug-resistant bacteria are a serious problem in biomedical applications that decrease the wound healing process and increase the mortality rate. Therefore, in this study, we have prepared a green-synthesized silver-nanoparticle-encapsulated mucilage microsphere (HMMS@GSNP) from Hibiscus rosa sinensis leaves and applied it to pathogen-infected burn and excision wounds. Biophysical properties like size, polydispersity index, absorbance capacity, and drug release were measured by different techniques like field-emission scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, swelling ratio, etc. The strong antibacterial activity of a HMMS@GSNP microsphere was measured by minimum inhibitory concentration assay, minimum bactericidal concentration assay, and agar well diffusion methods. The HMMS@GSNP microsphere enhanced the cell viability, cell proliferation, migration, antioxidant, and antiinflammation activity compared to untreated GSNP and HMMS, as quantified by MTT assay, BrdU assay, scratch wound assay, reactive oxygen species scavenging assay, and Western blot analysis, respectively. In the in vivo experiment, we used a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria-infected, burn-and-excision-wound-created male BALB/c mice model. The HMMS@GSNP-treated burn-and-excision-wound-infected mice showed significant results compared to other groups (untreated, Silverex Ionic Gel, AgNO3, HMMS, and GSNP), and the mice tissues were utilized for bacteria count, immunoblot analysis, histological studies, and real-time polymerase chain reaction. Thus, the HMM@GSNP microsphere is an excellent therapeutic material that can be used as a topical agent for the management of chronic wound therapy.

scRNA-seq analysis discovered suppression of immunomodulatory dependent inflammatory response in PMBCs exposed to silver nanoparticles

The assessment of AgNPs toxicity in vitro and in vivo models are frequently conflicting and inaccurate. Nevertheless, single cell immunological responses in a heterogenous environment have received little attention. Therefore, in this study, we have performed in-depth analysis which clearly revealed cellular-metal ion association as well as specific immunological response. Our study didn't show significant population differences in PMBC between control and AgNPs group implying no toxicological response. To confirm it further, deep profiling identified differences in subsets and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of monocytes, B cells and T cells. Notably, monocyte subsets showed significant upregulation of metallothionein (MT) gene expression such as MT1G, MT1X, MT1E, MT1A, and MT1F. On the other hand, downregulation of pro-inflammatory genes such as IL1β and CCL3 in both CD16 + and CD16- monocyte subsets were observed. This result indicated that AgNPs association with monocyte subsets de-promoted inflammatory responsive genes suggesting no significant toxicity observed in AgNPs treated group. Other cell types such as B cells and T cells also showed negligible differences in their subsets suggesting no toxicity response. Further, AgNPs treated group showed upregulation of cell proliferation, ribosomal synthesis, downregulation of cytokine release, and T cell differentiation inhibition. Overall, our results conclude that treatment of AgNPs to PMBC cells didn't display immunological related cytotoxicity response and thus motivate researchers to use them actively for biomedical applications.

Bionanofactory for green synthesis of collagen nanoparticles, characterization, optimization, in-vitro and in-vivo anticancer activities

Collagen nanoparticles (collagen-NPs) are promising biological polymer nanoparticles due to their exceptional biodegradability and biocompatibility. Collagen-NPs were bio-fabricated from pure marine collagen using the cell-free supernatant of a newly isolated strain, Streptomyces sp. strain NEAA-3. Streptomyces sp. strain NEAA-3 was identified as Streptomyces plicatus strain NEAA-3 based on its cultural, morphological, physiological properties and 16S rRNA sequence analysis. The sequence data has been deposited under accession number OR501412.1 in the GenBank database. The face-centered central composite design (FCCD) was used to improve collagen-NPs biosynthesis. The maximum yield of collagen-NPs was 9.33 mg/mL with a collagen concentration of 10 mg/mL, an initial pH of 7, an incubation time of 72 h, and a temperature of 35 °C. Using the desirability function approach, the collagen-NPs biosynthesis obtained after FCCD optimization (9.53 mg/mL) was 3.92 times more than the collagen-NPs biosynthesis obtained before optimization process (2.43 mg/mL). The TEM analysis of collagen-NPs revealed hollow sphere nanoscale particles with an average diameter of 33.15 ± 10.02 nm. FTIR spectra confirmed the functional groups of the collagen, collagen-NPs and the cell-free supernatant that are essential for the efficient capping of collagen-NPs. The biosynthesized collagen-NPs exhibited antioxidant activity and anticancer activity against HeP-G2, MCF-7 and HCT116 cell lines. Collagen-NPs assessed as an effective drug loading carrier with methotrexate (MTX), a chemotherapeutic agent. The TEM analysis revealed that the average size of MTX-loaded collagen-NPs was 35.4 ± 8.9 nm. The percentages of drug loading (DL%) and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) were respectively 22.67 and 45.81%.

Comprehensive antifungal investigation of green synthesized silver nanoformulation against four agriculturally significant fungi and its cytotoxic applications

The present study reports the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in powder form using the leaf extract of Azadirachta indica. The synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and EDX. The synthesized AgNPs were in a powdered state and dispersed completely in 5% polyethylene glycol (PEG) and demonstrated prolonged shelf life and enhanced bioavailability over a year without any aggregation. The resulting silver nanoformulation demonstrated complete inhibition against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Colletotrichum falcatum and 68% to 80% inhibition against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Rhizoctonia solani respectively, at 2000 ppm. The EC50 values determined through a statistical analysis were 66.42, 157.7, 19.06, and 33.30 ppm for S. sclerotiorum, C. falcatum, C. gloeosporioides, and R. solani respectively. The silver nanoformulation also established significant cytotoxicity, with a 74.96% inhibition rate against the human glioblastoma cell line U87MG at 250 ppm. The IC50 value for the cancerous cell lines was determined to be 56.87 ppm through statistical analysis. The proposed silver nanoformulation may be used as a next-generation fungicide in crop improvement and may also find application in anticancer investigations. To the best of our knowledge, this is also the first report of silver nanoformulation demonstrating complete inhibition against the economically significant phytopathogen C. falcatum.

Nanosynthesis, phycochemical constituents, and pharmacological properties of cyanobacterium Oscillatoria sp

The Oscillatoria sp., a blue-green alga or cyanobacterium, consists of about 305 species distributed globally. Cyanobacteria are prokaryotes possessing several secondary metabolites that have industrial and biomedical applications. Particularly, the published reviews on Oscillatoria sp. have not recorded any pharmacology, or possible details, while the detailed chemical structures of the alga are reported in the literature. Hence, this study considers pertinent pharmacological activities of the plethora of bioactive components of Oscillatoria sp. Furthermore, the metallic nanoparticles produced with Oscillatoria sp. were documented for plausible antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anticancer, and cytotoxic effects against several cultured human cell lines. The antimicrobial activities of solvent extracts of Oscillatoria sp. and the biotic activities of its derivatives, pyridine, acridine, fatty acids, and triazine were structurally described in detail. To understand the connotations with research gaps and provide some pertinent prospective suggestions for further research on cyanobacteria as potent sources of pharmaceutical utilities, attempts were documented. The compounds of Oscillatoria sp. are a potent source of secondary metabolites that inhibit the cancer cell lines, in vitro. It could be expected that by holistic exploitation, the natural Oscillatoria products, as the source of chemical varieties and comparatively more potent inhibitors, would be explored against pharmacological activities with the integument of SARs.

In vitro and in silico analysis unravelled clinically desirable attributes of Bacillus altitudinis L-asparaginase

AIMS

To identify a marine L-asparaginase with clinically desirable attributes and characterize the shortlisted candidate through in silico tools.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Marine bacterial strains (number = 105) isolated from marine crabs were evaluated through a stepwise strategy incorporating the crucial attributes for therapeutic safety. The results demonstrated the potential of eight bacterial species for extracellular L-asparaginase production. However, only one isolate (Bacillus altitudinis CMFRI/Bal-2) showed clinically desirable attributes, viz. extracellular production, type-II nature, lack of concurrent L-glutaminase and urease activities, and presence of ansZ (functional gene for clinical type). The enzyme production was 22.55 ± 0.5 µM/mg protein/min within 24 h without optimization. The enzyme also showed good activity and stability in pH 7-8 and temperature 37°C, predicting the functioning inside the human body. The Michealis-Menten constant (Km) was 14.75 µM. Detailed in silico analysis based on functional gene authenticating the results of in vitro characterization and predicted the nonallergenic characteristic of the candidate. Docking results proved the higher affinity of the shortlisted candidate to L-asparagine than L-glutamine and urea.

CONCLUSION

Comprehensively, the study highlighted B. altitudinis type II asparaginase as a competent candidate for further research on clinically safe asparaginases.

Process optimization for gold nanoparticles biosynthesis by Streptomyces albogriseolus using artificial neural network, characterization and antitumor activities

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are highly promising in cancer therapy, wound healing, drug delivery, biosensing, and biomedical imaging. Furthermore, GNPs have anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, antioxidants, anti-proliferative and anti-diabetic effects. The present study presents an eco-friendly approach for GNPs biosynthesis using the cell-free supernatant of Streptomyces albogriseolus as a reducing and stabilizing agent. The biosynthesized GNPs have a maximum absorption peak at 540 nm. The TEM images showed that GNPs ranged in size from 5.42 to 13.34 nm and had a spherical shape. GNPs have a negatively charged surface with a Zeta potential of - 24.8 mV. FTIR analysis identified several functional groups including C-H, -OH, C-N, amines and amide groups. The crystalline structure of GNPs was verified by X-ray diffraction and the well-defined and distinct diffraction rings observed by the selected area electron diffraction analysis. To optimize the biosynthesis of GNPs using the cell-free supernatant of S. albogriseolus, 30 experimental runs were conducted using central composite design (CCD). The artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to analyze, validate, and predict GNPs biosynthesis compared to CCD. The maximum experimental yield of GNPs (778.74 μg/mL) was obtained with a cell-free supernatant concentration of 70%, a HAuCl4 concentration of 800 μg/mL, an initial pH of 7, and a 96-h incubation time. The theoretically predicted yields of GNPs by CCD and ANN were 809.89 and 777.32 μg/mL, respectively, which indicates that ANN has stronger prediction potential compared to the CCD. The anticancer activity of GNPs was compared to that of doxorubicin (Dox) in vitro against the HeP-G2 human cancer cell line. The IC50 values of Dox and GNPs-based treatments were 7.26 ± 0.4 and 22.13 ± 1.3 µg/mL, respectively. Interestingly, treatments combining Dox and GNPs together showed an IC50 value of 3.52 ± 0.1 µg/mL, indicating that they targeted cancer cells more efficiently.

A bioinspired and sustainable route for the preparation of Ag-crosslinked alginate fibers decorated with silver nanoparticles

Functional materials obtained through green and sustainable routes are attracting particular attention due to the need to reduce the environmental impact of the chemical industry. In this work we propose a bioinspired approach for the preparation of alginate fibers containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), to be used for antimicrobial purposes. We demonstrate that filiform polymeric structures with length of a few meters can be easily obtained by extruding an alginate solution in an aqueous Ag+-containing bath (i.e. wet spinning) and that treating the fibers with freshly-squeezed lemon juice leads to the formation of AgNPs homogeneously distributed within the polymeric network. Using mixtures of ascorbic and citric acid to mimic lemon juice composition we highlight the influence of the aforementioned molecules on the nanoparticles formation process as well as on the properties of the fibers. Varying the amount of citric and ascorbic acid used for the treatment allows to finely tune the thermal, morphological and water absorption properties of the fibers. This evidence, along with the possibility to easily monitor the preparation through FT-IR spectroscopy, endows the fibers with a high application potential in several fields such as wound healing, water/air purification and agriculture.

Green synthesis of collagen nanoparticles by Streptomyces xinghaiensis NEAA-1, statistical optimization, characterization, and evaluation of their anticancer potential

Collagen nanoparticles (collagen-NPs) are promising biopolymeric nanoparticles due to their superior biodegradability and biocompatibility. The low immunogenicity and non-toxicity of collagen-NPs makes it preferable for a wide range of applications. A total of eight morphologically distinct actinomycetes strains were newly isolated from various soil samples in Egypt. The cell-free supernatants of these strains were tested for their ability. These strains' cell-free supernatants were tested for their ability to synthesize collagen-NPs. Five isolates had the ability to biosynthesize collagen-NPs. Among these, a potential culture, Streptomyces sp. NEAA-1, was chosen and identified as Streptomyces xinghaiensis NEAA-1 based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis as well as morphological, cultural and physiological properties. The sequence data has been deposited at the GenBank database under the accession No. OQ652077.1. Face-centered central composite design (FCCD) has been conducted to maximize collagen-NPs biosynthesis. Maximum collagen-NPs was 8.92 mg/mL under the condition of 10 mg/mL of collagen concentration, initial pH 7, incubation time of 48 h and temperature of 35 °C. The yield of collagen-NPs obtained via FCCD optimization (8.92 mg/mL) was 3.32-fold compared to the yield obtained under non-optimized conditions (2.5 mg/mL). TEM analysis of collagen-NPs showed hollow sphere nanoscale particles with mean of 32.63 ± 14.59 nm in diameter. FTIR spectra showed major peaks of amide I, amide II and amide III of collagen and also the cell-free supernatant involved in effective capping of collagen-NPs. The biosynthesized collagen-NPs exhibited anti-hemolytic, antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. The inhibitory concentrations (IC50) against MCF-7, HeP-G2 and HCT116 cell lines were 11.62 ± 0.8, 19.60 ± 1.2 and 41.67 ± 2.2 µg/mL; respectively. The in-vivo investigation showed that collagen-NPs can suppress Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) growth in mice. The collagen-NPs/DOX combination treatment showed considerable tumor growth suppression (95.58%). Collagen-NPs evaluated as nanocarrier with a chemotherapeutic agent, methotrexate (MTX). The average size of MTX loaded collagen-NPs was 42.73 ± 3.5 nm. Encapsulation efficiency percentage (EE %) was 48.91% and drug loading percentage (DL %) was 24.45%.

Synthesis of silver and copper nanoparticle using Spirulina platensis and evaluation of their anticancer activity

The present research displays the green synthesis of stable silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs). The aqueous solution of Spirulina platensis (blue green algae) source was used as a reducing and capping agent and this study assessed the cytotoxicity of Ag- and CuO-NPs on three cancer cell cultures: A549 (lung cancer), HCT (human colon cancer), Hep2 (laryngeal carcinoma cancer) and normal cell (WISH). For NPs characterization, the UV/Vis spectroscopy was used where their formation and crystallinity were proven with λ max values for Ag- and CuO-NPs of 425 and 234 nm, respectively. According to X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Ag-NPs were spherical in shape (size 2.23-14.68 nm) and CuO-NPs were small (size 3.75-12.4 nm). Zeta potential analysis showed the particles potential, which was recorded by -14.95 ± 4.31 mV for Ag-NPs and -21.63 ± 4.90 mV for CuO-NPs. After that, Ag- and CuO-NPs were assessed for anticancer properties against A549, HCT, Hep2 and WISH. IC50 of Ag-NPs recorded 15.67, 12.94, 3.8 and 10.44 µg/ml for WISH, A549, HCT and Hep2, respectively. IC50 for CuO-NPs was recorded as 32.64, 54.59, 3.98 and 20.56 µg/ml for WISH, A549, HCT and Hep2 cells, respectively. Safety limits for WISH and A549 were achieved 98.64% by 2.44 µg/ml and 83.43% by 4.88 µg/ml of Ag-NPs, and it was found to be 97.94% by 2.44 µg/ml against HCT, while that for Hep2 is 95.9% by 2.44 µg/ml. Concerning the anticancer effect of CuO-NPs, the safety limit was recorded as 88.70% by 2.44 and 98.48% by 4.88 µg/ml against WISH and A549, while HCT reached 89.92% by 2.44 µg/ml and Hep2 was 83.33% by 4.88 µg/ml. Green nanotechnology applications such as Ag-NPs and CuO-NPs have numerous benefits of ecofriendliness and compatibility for biomedical applications such as anticancer effects against cancer cells.

Polysaccharides from Spirulina platensis (PSP): promising biostimulants for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their potential application in the treatment of cancer tumors

Photosynthetic cyanobacterial components are gaining great economic importance as prospective low-cost biostimulants for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles with valuable medical and industrial applications. The current study comprises the biological synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using soluble polysaccharides isolated from Spirulina platensis (PSP) as reducing and capping agents. FTIR spectra showed major functional groups of PSP and biogenic silver nanoparticles including O-H, C-H (CH2), C-H (CH3), C=O, amide, and COO- groups. The UV/Vis spectroscopy scan analyses of the extracted PSP showed absorption spectra in the range of 200-400 nm, whereas the biogenic Ag-NPs showed a maximum spectrum at 285 nm. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of the synthesized Ag-NPs showed spherical nanoparticles with mean size between 12 and 15.3 nm. The extracted PSP and Ag-NPs exhibited effective cytotoxic activity against Hep-G2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma). The IC50 for PSP and Ag-NPs were 65.4 and 24.5 µg/mL, respectively. Moreover, cell apoptosis assays for PSP and Ag-NPs against the growth of Hep-G2 cells revealed superior growth inhibitory effects of the green synthesized Ag-NPs that encouraged tracing the apoptotic signalling pathway. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated an unprecedented approach for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (NPs), using the polysaccharide of Spirulina platensis as reducing and capping agents, with superior anticancer activity against a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line.

The Characterization and Study of Antibacterial, Free Radical Scavenging, and Anticancer Potential of Livistona chinensis-Mediated Silver Nanoparticles

In the present research, Livistona chinensis leaf extracts were utilized as reductants to bio-fabricate silver nanoparticles (LC-AgNPs) and this was followed by the evaluation of their antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer potential. Multiple parameters were optimized for the formation and fidelity of LC-AgNPs. The color shift of the reaction mixture from yellow to dark brown confirmed the LC-AgNPs formation. UV/VIS spectroscopy exhibited a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band at 436 nm. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy spectrum depicted phytochemicals in the plant extract acting as bio-reducers for LC-AgNPs synthesis. The XRD pattern confirmed the presence of LC-AgNPs by showing peaks corresponding to 2θ angle at 8.24° (111), 38.16° (200), 44.20° (220), and 64.72° (311). Zetasizer analysis exhibited size distribution by intensity of LC-AgNPs with a mean value of 255.7 d. nm. Moreover, the zeta potential indicated that the AgNPs synthesized were stable. The irregular shape of LC-AgNPs with a mean average of 38.46 ± 0.26 nm was found by scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, the antioxidant potential of LC-AgNPs was examined using a DPPH assay and was calculated to be higher in LC-AgNPs than in leaf extracts. The calculated IC50 values of the LC-AgNPs and plant extract are 85.01 ± 0.17 and 209.44 ± 0.24, respectively. The antibacterial activity of LC-AgNPs was investigated against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus subtilis as well as Staphylococcus aureus, and maximum potential was observed after 24 h against P. aeruginosa. Moreover, LC-AgNPs exhibited maximum anticancer potential against TPC1 cell lines compared to the plant extract. The findings suggested that LC-AgNPs could be used as antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer agents for the cure of free-radical-oriented bacterial and oncogenic diseases.

Plackett-Burman design in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles with Mutisia acuminatta (Chinchircoma) and preliminary evaluation of its antibacterial activity

Background: The aim of this study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the methanolic fraction of Mutisia acuminatta leaves using Plackett-Burman design to optimize process parameters and to evaluate its antibacterial effect. Methods: For the separation of Mutisia acuminatta phytoconstituents, chromatographic techniques were used. For characterization and identification, UV - VIS spectrophotometry, FTIR spectrophotometry, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used. The Plackett-Burman design used polynomial regression statistical analysis to determine the most influential variables. Results: UV-VIS spectroscopy reported an absorbance concerning surface plasmon resonance between 410-420 nm wavelength for the AgNPs. FTIR spectrophotometry reported characteristic peaks in the biosynthesized AgNPs, observing the disappearance of spectral peaks between 1000-1500 cm -1. By UHPLC-MS, caffeic acid derivatives, coumarins, flavonoids, lignans, disaccharide and a complex formed between silver and the solvent (AgCH3CN+) were identified. Using DLS, the AgNPs presented an average hydrodynamic size of 45.91 nm. TEM determined the spherical shape of the AgNPs, presenting diameters in the range of 30 to 60 nm. The biosynthesized AgNPs showed higher antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus than the total extract, the methanolic fraction and pure methanol. The polynomial model in the biosynthesis was validated with an adequate fitting representing the experimental data of the process. The most significant variables for the model obtained were the reaction pH (X 2) and the concentration of the precursor salt AgNO 3 (X 6). Conclusions: The synthesized AgNPs offer a viable option for further development due to the presence of bioactive compounds, adequate characterization and antibacterial activity.

Cytotoxic Activity of Hypericum triquetrifolium Turra Methanolic Extract Against Cancer Cell Lines

BACKGROUND

Since ancient times, several people in the Mediterranean region have employed Hypericum triquetrifolium Turra in traditional medicine. However, only the composition of its essential oils has received extensive research.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the cytogenetic and cytotoxic effects of H. triquetrifolium methanolic leaf extract on four different cancer cell lines.

METHODS

Methanolic extract of H. triquetrifolium leaves was prepared. Albino male mice were grouped into five: group 1 (blank control) received water;group II (CYP) received cyclophosphoamide; groups III, IV, and V were administered 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of H. triquetrifolium extracts. On the 11th day, the animals were sacrificed and bone marrowwascollected. The metaphase index (MI) of the bone marrow cells was determined to evaluate the cytogenetic effect of the extract. The cytotoxic activity of the extract was tested on four cancer cell lines (HepG2, PC3, MDA, and A594), while WRL-68 normal cells were employed as control.

RESULTS

The index of bone marrow cells in cyclophosphamide (CYP)-treated albino male mice shows a significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between concentration inhibition 50 % IC50 of cancer cell line compered to WRL-68 normal cells, on MDA and WRL-68 cells (IC50 =185.7, 200.7), HepG2 and WRL-68 (IC50 104.9, 564.6), A549 and WRL-68 (IC50 115, 192), PC3 and WRL-68 (IC50 160.7, 298.7). The results showed that the extracts was able to increase metaphase index compared to cyclophasoamide-treated mice, which caused a drop in the percentage of metaphase index.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study was showed that significant anti - proliferation activity of Hypericum triquetrifolium methanolic extract against MDA-MB-231 cell line is an epithelial, human breast cancer cell line,WRL-68, HepG2 and lung cancer cell lines (A594).

All-in-one properties of an anticancer-covered airway stent for the prevention of malignant central airway obstruction

Malignant central airway obstruction (MCAO) resulting from tumor metastasis and compression severely impairs respiration, posing life-threatening risks. To address this, we employed a synergistic modification strategy, combining cisplatin (CIS) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Polycaprolactone (PCL) served as a drug carrier, enabling the preparation of a functional CIS@AgNPs@PCL fiber membrane-covered airway stent via electrospinning. This approach aimed to enhance the patency rate of MCAO. Characterization via ATR-FTIR, scanning electron microscope-energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscope confirmed successful immobilization of CIS and AgNPs onto the stent surface. CIS@AgNPs@PCL substantially suppressed non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549), causing DNA damage, ultrastructural disruption, and over 50% apoptosis in 48 h. It also displayed potent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans biofilms. A mouse subcutaneous tumor recurrence model assessed anti-cancer efficacy. CIS@AgNPs@PCL fiber-covered stents significantly inhibited lung cancer tissue and enhanced anti-cancer effects by up-regulating caspase-3 and Bax, while down-regulating Bcl-2. This study's functional airway stent provides a proof-of-concept for an integrated anti-cancer and antibacterial strategy. It promptly restores the lumen, inhibits biofilm formation, prevents tumor progression, and improves postoperative MCAO patency.

A rapid, high-yield and bioinspired synthesis of colloidal silver nanoparticles using Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract and assessment of antibacterial and phytostimulatory activity

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as highly effective antimicrobial agents against multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This study aims to employ green chemistry principles for AgNP synthesis involving phytochemical-rich extract from Glycyrrhiza glabra roots. The approach highlights using renewable feedstocks, safer chemicals, minimum byproducts, and process scale-up. The synthesis of AgNPs was assessed using a surface plasmon resonance band at 420 nm, and structural properties were characterized using TEM, x-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This method enables the production of high-yield dispersions of AgNPs with desired physicochemical characteristics, including dark yellow solution, size (~20 nm), spherical to an oval shape, crystal structure, and stable colloidal properties. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was investigated against the MDR bacteria strains of gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli). This work reveals that the antimicrobial activity of AgNPs can be influenced by bacterial cell wall components. The results demonstrate the strong interaction between AgNPs and E. coli, exhibiting a dose-dependent antibacterial response. The green approach facilitated the safer, facile, and rapid synthesis of colloidal dispersions of AgNPs, providing a sustainable and promising alternative to conventional chemical and physical methods. Furthermore, the effect of AgNPs on various growth parameters, including seed germination, root and shoot elongation, and dry weight biomass, was assessed for mung bean seedlings. The results revealed phytostimulatory effects, suggesting the promising prospects of AgNPs in the nano-priming of agronomic seeds. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract enabled rapid, high-yield, and eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Spectrophotometric analysis examined the optical properties, scalability, and stability of AgNPs. Transmission electron microscopy provided insights into the size, shape, and dispersity of AgNPs. Scanning electron microscopy revealed significant damage to gram-negative bacterial cell morphology and membrane integrity. AgNPs were found to enhance seed germination, seedling growth, and biomass yield of Vigna radiata.

Preparation of injectable hydrophilic dextran/AgNPs nanocomposite product: White light active biomolecules as an antitumor agent

Incidence of various cancers including melanoma continues to rise worldwide. While treatment options have expanded in the recent years, the benefit of these treatments suffer from short period of duration for many patients. Hence, new treatment options are highly desired. Here, we propose a method combining a Dextran/reactive-copolymer/AgNPs nanocomposite and a harmless visible light approach to obtain a plasma substitute carbohydrate-based nanoproduct (D@AgNP) that shows strong antitumor activity. Light-driven polysaccharide-based nanocomposite provided essential conditions for extra small (8-12nm) AgNPs capping with subsequent specific self-assembly into spherical-like cloud nanostructures. Obtained biocompatible D@AgNP are stable over six months at room temperature and demonstrated absorbance peak at 406 nm. New formulated nanoproduct revealed efficient anticancer properties against A375 with IC50 0.0035 mg/mL following 24-h incubation; complete cell death is achieved at 0.001 mg/mL and 0.0005 mg/mL by 24- and 48-h time points, respectively. SEM examination shows that D@AgNP altered the shape of the cell structure and damaged the cell membrane. TEM finding shows that D@AgNP are mostly localized at vesicles such as the endosomes, lysosomes and mitochondria. It is anticipated that the introduced new method serves as the cornerstone for improving the generation of biocompatible hydrophilic carbohydrate-based anticancer drugs.

Functionalized Metal Nanoparticles in Cancer Therapy

Currently, there are many studies on the application of nanotechnology in therapy. Metallic nanoparticles are promising nanomaterials in cancer therapy; however, functionalization of these nanoparticles with biomolecules has become relevant as their effect on cancer cells is considerably increased by photothermal and photodynamic therapies, drug nanocarriers, and specificity by antibodies, resulting in new therapies that are more specific against different types of cancer. This review describes studies on the effect of functionalized palladium, gold, silver and platinum nanoparticles in the treatment of cancer, these nanoparticles themselves show an anticancer effect. This effect is further enhanced when the NPs are functionalized with either antibodies, DNA, RNA, peptides, proteins, or folic acid and other molecules. These NPs can penetrate the cell and accumulate in the tumor tissue, resulting in a cytotoxic effect through the generation of ROS, the induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, DNA fragmentation, and a photothermal effect. NP-based therapy is a new strategy that can be used synergistically with chemotherapy and radiotherapy to achieve more effective therapies and reduce side effects.

Green fabrication of chitosan nanoparticles using Lavendula angustifolia, optimization, characterization and in‑vitro antibiofilm activity

Chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) are promising polymeric nanoparticles with exceptional physicochemical, antimicrobial and biological characteristics. The CNPs are preferred for a wide range of applications in the food industry, cosmetics, agriculture, medical, and pharmaceutical fields due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, eco-friendliness, and non-toxicity. In the current study, a biologically based approach was used to biofabricate CNPs using an aqueous extract of Lavendula angustifolia leaves as a reducing agent. The TEM images show that the CNPs were spherical in shape and ranged in size from 7.24 to 9.77 nm. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of several functional groups, including C-H, C-O, CONH₂, NH₂, C-OH and C-O-C. The crystalline nature of CNPs is demonstrated by X-ray diffraction. The thermogravimetric analysis revealed that CNPs are thermally stable. The CNPs' surface is positively charged and has a Zeta potential of 10 mV. For optimising CNPs biofabrication, a face-centered central composite design (FCCCD) with 50 experiments was used. The artificial intelligence-based approach was used to analyse, validate, and predict CNPs biofabrication. The optimal conditions for maximum CNPs biofabrication were theoretically determined using the desirability function and experimentally verified. The optimal conditions that maximize CNPs biofabrication (10.11 mg/mL) were determined to be chitosan concentration 0.5%, leaves extract 75%, and initial pH 4.24. The antibiofilm activity of CNPs was evaluated in‑vitro. The results show that 1500 μg/mL of CNPs suppressed P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and C. albicans biofilm formation by 91.83 ± 1.71%, 55.47 ± 2.12% and 66.4 ± 1.76%; respectively. The promising results of the current study in biofilm inhibition by necrotizing biofilm architecture, reducing its significant constituents and inhibiting microbial cell proliferation encourage their use as natural biosafe and biocompatible anti-adherent coating in antibiofouling membranes, medical bandage/tissues and food packaging materials.

Photosynthesis of silver nanoparticles embedded paper for sensing mercury presence in environmental water

Heavy metals released by anthropogenic activities are extremely toxic to animals and plants due to their bioaccumulative and persistent environmental presence. In the current study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized utilizing eco-friendly processes, and their potential in colorimetric Hg²⁺ ion sensing in environmental samples was examined. An aqueous extract of Hemidesmus indicus root (Sarsaparilla Root, ISR) rapidly converts silver ions into AgNPs within 5 min of exposure to sunlight. Transmission electron microscopy confirms that ISR-AgNPs are spherical, ranging from 15 to 35 nm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed phytomolecules stabilized the NPs with hydroxyl and carbonyl substituents. The ISR-AgNPs detect Hg²⁺ ions by a colour change that can be seen with the naked eye within 1 min. The probe is interference-free and detects the presence of Hg²⁺ ions in sewage water. A method for fabricating ISR-AgNPs onto paper was disclosed, and this portable ISR-AgNPs embedded paper device was found to be good at sensing mercury present in the water. The findings show that environmentally friendly synthesized AgNPs can contribute to developing onsite colorimetric sensors.

Green Synthesis of Controlled Shape Silver Nanostructures and Their Peroxidase, Catalytic Degradation, and Antibacterial Activity

Nanoparticles with unique shapes have garnered significant interest due to their enhanced surface area-to-volume ratio, leading to improved potential compared to their spherical counterparts. The present study focuses on a biological approach to producing different silver nanostructures employing Moringa oleifera leaf extract. Phytoextract provides metabolites, serving as reducing and stabilizing agents in the reaction. Two different silver nanostructures, dendritic (AgNDs) and spherical (AgNPs), were successfully formed by adjusting the phytoextract concentration with and without copper ions in the reaction system, resulting in particle sizes of ~300 ± 30 nm (AgNDs) and ~100 ± 30 nm (AgNPs). These nanostructures were characterized by several techniques to ascertain their physicochemical properties; the surface was distinguished by functional groups related to polyphenols due to plant extract that led to critical controlling of the shape of nanoparticles. Nanostructures performance was assessed in terms of peroxidase-like activity, catalytic behavior for dye degradation, and antibacterial activity. Spectroscopic analysis revealed that AgNDs demonstrated significantly higher peroxidase activity compared to AgNPs when evaluated using chromogenic reagent 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine. Furthermore, AgNDs exhibited enhanced catalytic degradation activities, achieving degradation percentages of 92.2% and 91.0% for methyl orange and methylene blue dyes, respectively, compared to 66.6% and 58.0% for AgNPs. Additionally, AgNDs exhibited superior antibacterial properties against Gram-negative E. coli compared to Gram-positive S. aureus, as evidenced by the calculated zone of inhibition. These findings highlight the potential of the green synthesis method in generating novel nanoparticle morphologies, such as dendritic shape, compared with the traditionally synthesized spherical shape of silver nanostructures. The synthesis of such unique nanostructures holds promise for various applications and further investigations in diverse sectors, including chemical and biomedical fields.

Influence of Silver Nanoparticles on the Growth of Ascitic and Solid Ehrlich Adenocarcinoma: Focus on Copper Metabolism

The link between copper metabolism and tumor progression motivated us to use copper chelators for suppression of tumor growth. We assume that silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be used for lowering bioavailable copper. Our assumption is based on the ability of Ag(I) ions released by AgNPs in biological media and interfere with Cu(I) transport. Intervention of Ag(I) into copper metabolism leads to the replacement of copper by silver in ceruloplasmin and the decrease in bioavailable copper in the bloodstream. To check this assumption, mice with ascitic or solid Ehrlich adenocarcinoma (EAC) were treated with AgNPs using different protocols. Copper status indexes (copper concentration, ceruloplasmin protein level, and oxidase activity) were monitored to assess copper metabolism. The expression of copper-related genes was determined by real-time PCR in the liver and tumors, and copper and silver levels were measured by FAAS. Intraperitoneal AgNPs treatment beginning on the day of tumor inoculation enhanced mice survival, reduced the proliferation of ascitic EAC cells, and suppressed the activity of HIF1α, TNF-α and VEGFa genes. Topical treatment by the AgNPs, which was started together with the implantation of EAC cells in the thigh, also enhanced mice survival, decreased tumor growth, and repressed genes responsible for neovascularization. The advantages of silver-induced copper deficiency over copper chelators are discussed.

Artificial intelligence-based optimization for chitosan nanoparticles biosynthesis, characterization and in‑vitro assessment of its anti-biofilm potentiality

Chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) are promising biopolymeric nanoparticles with excellent physicochemical, antimicrobial, and biological properties. CNPs have a wide range of applications due to their unique characteristics, including plant growth promotion and protection, drug delivery, antimicrobials, and encapsulation. The current study describes an alternative, biologically-based strategy for CNPs biosynthesis using Olea europaea leaves extract. Face centered central composite design (FCCCD), with 50 experiments was used for optimization of CNPs biosynthesis. The artificial neural network (ANN) was employed for analyzing, validating, and predicting CNPs biosynthesis using Olea europaea leaves extract. Using the desirability function, the optimum conditions for maximum CNPs biosynthesis were determined theoretically and verified experimentally. The highest experimental yield of CNPs (21.15 mg CNPs/mL) was obtained using chitosan solution of 1%, leaves extract solution of 100%, initial pH 4.47, and incubation time of 60 min at 53.83°C. The SEM and TEM images revealed that CNPs had a spherical form and varied in size between 6.91 and 11.14 nm. X-ray diffraction demonstrates the crystalline nature of CNPs. The surface of the CNPs is positively charged, having a Zeta potential of 33.1 mV. FTIR analysis revealed various functional groups including C-H, C-O, CONH2, NH2, C-OH and C-O-C. The thermogravimetric investigation indicated that CNPs are thermally stable. The CNPs were able to suppress biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and C. albicans at concentrations ranging from 10 to 1500 µg/mL in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition of biofilm formation was associated with suppression of metabolic activity, protein/exopolysaccharide moieties, and hydrophobicity of biofilm encased cells (r ˃ 0.9, P = 0.00). Due to their small size, in the range of 6.91 to 11.14 nm, CNPs produced using Olea europaea leaves extract are promising for applications in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, in addition to their potential application in controlling multidrug-resistant microorganisms, especially those associated with post COVID-19 pneumonia in immunosuppressed patients.

The Role of Silver Nanoparticles in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer: Are There Any Perspectives for the Future?

Cancer is a fatal disease with a complex pathophysiology. Lack of specificity and cytotoxicity, as well as the multidrug resistance of traditional cancer chemotherapy, are the most common limitations that often cause treatment failure. Thus, in recent years, significant efforts have concentrated on the development of a modernistic field called nano-oncology, which provides the possibility of using nanoparticles (NPs) with the aim to detect, target, and treat cancer diseases. In comparison with conventional anticancer strategies, NPs provide a targeted approach, preventing undesirable side effects. What is more, nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems have shown good pharmacokinetics and precise targeting, as well as reduced multidrug resistance. It has been documented that, in cancer cells, NPs promote reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, activate ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress, modulate various signaling pathways, etc. Furthermore, their ability to inhibit tumor growth in vivo has also been documented. In this paper, we have reviewed the role of silver NPs (AgNPs) in cancer nanomedicine, discussing numerous mechanisms by which they render anticancer properties under both in vitro and in vivo conditions, as well as their potential in the diagnosis of cancer.

Silver Is Not Equal to Silver: Synthesis and Evaluation of Silver Nanoparticles with Low Biological Activity, and Their Incorporation into C12Alanine-Based Hydrogel

A new type of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was prepared and comprehensively studied. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses indicated that 24 nm AgNPs with narrow size distribution were obtained while Z-potential confirms their good stability. The composites of the obtained AgNPs with nontoxic-nature-inspired hydrogel were formed upon cooling of the aqueous solution AgNPs and C₁₂Ala. The thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) do not show significant shifts in the characteristic temperature peaks for pure and silver-enriched gels, which indicates that AgNPs do not strongly interact with C₁₂Ala fibers, which was also confirmed by SEM. Both AgNPs alone and in the assembly with the gelator C₁₂Ala were almost biologically passive against bacteria, fungus, cancer, and nontumor human cells, as well as zebra-fish embryos. These studies proved that the new inactive AgNPs-doped hydrogels have potential for the application in therapy as drug delivery media.

Assessment of the Anticancer Potentials of the Free and Metal-Organic Framework (UiO-66) - Delivered Phycocyanobilin

Phycocyanin (C-PC) is a constitutive chromoprotein of Arthrospira platensis, which exhibits promising efficacy against different types of cancer. In this study, we cleaved C-PC's chromophore phycocyanobilin (PCB) and demonstrated its ability as an anti-cancer drug for Colorectal cancer (CRC). PCB displayed an anti-cancer effect for CRC (HT-29) cells with IC50 of 108 µg/ml. Assessing the transcripts levels of some biomarkers revealed that the PCB caused an upregulation in the anti-metastatic gene NME1 level and downregulation of the COX-2 level. The flow cytometric results showed the effect of PCB on the arrest of the cell cycle's G1 phase. In addition, we successfully synthesized the UiO-66 (Zr-MOF). We incorporated the PCB into UiO-66 nanoparticles with a loading percentage of 46 %. Assessment of the cytotoxic effects of UiO-66@PCB showed a 2-fold improvement in the IC50 compared to the free PCB. In conclusion, we have shown that PCB displayed a promising potential as an anti-cancer agent. Yet, it is considered a safe and natural substance that can help to mitigate cancer spread and symptoms. In the meantime, UiO-66 can be used as a safe nano-delivery tool for PCB.

Innovative biosynthesis, artificial intelligence-based optimization, and characterization of chitosan nanoparticles by Streptomyces microflavus and their inhibitory potential against Pectobacterium carotovorum

Microbial-based strategy in nanotechnology offers economic, eco-friendly, and biosafety advantages over traditional chemical and physical protocols. The current study describes a novel biosynthesis protocol for chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs), employing a pioneer Streptomyces sp. strain NEAE-83, which exhibited a significant potential for CNPs biosynthesis. It was identified as Streptomyces microflavus strain NEAE-83 based on morphological, and physiological properties as well as the 16S rRNA sequence (GenBank accession number: MG384964). CNPs were characterized by SEM, TEM, EDXS, zeta potential, FTIR, XRD, TGA, and DSC. CNPs biosynthesis was maximized using a mathematical model, face-centered central composite design (CCFCD). The highest yield of CNPs (9.41 mg/mL) was obtained in run no. 27, using an initial pH of 5.5, 1% chitosan, 40 °C, and a 12 h incubation period. Innovatively, the artificial neural network (ANN), was used for validating and predicting CNPs biosynthesis based on the trials data of CCFCD. Despite the high precision degree of both models, ANN was supreme in the prediction of CNPs biosynthesis compared to CCFCD. ANN had a higher prediction efficacy and, lower error values (RMSE, MDA, and SSE). CNPs biosynthesized by Streptomyces microflavus strain NEAE-83 showed in-vitro antibacterial activity against Pectobacterium carotovorum, which causes the potato soft rot. These results suggested its potential application for controlling the destructive potato soft rot diseases. This is the first report on the biosynthesis of CNPs using a newly isolated; Streptomyces microflavus strain NEAE-83 as an eco-friendly approach and optimization of the biosynthesis process by artificial intelligence.

Antifungal Activity of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) against Aspergilli Causing Aspergillosis: Ultrastructure Study

Currently, nanoparticles and nanomaterials are widely used for biomedical applications. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were successfully biosynthesized using a cell-free extract (CFE) of Bacillus thuringiensis MAE 6 through a green and ecofriendly method. The size of the biosynthesized AgNPs was 32.7 nm, and their crystalline nature was confirmed by XRD, according to characterization results. A surface plasmon resonance spectrum of AgNPs was obtained at 420 nm. Nanoparticles were further characterized using DLS and FTIR analyses, which provided information on their size, stability, and functional groups. AgNPs revealed less cytotoxicity against normal Vero cell line [IC₅₀ = 155 μg/mL]. Moreover, the biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited promising antifungal activity against four most common Aspergillus, including Aspergillus niger, A. terreus, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus at concentrations of 500 μg/mL where inhibition zones were 16, 20, 26, and 19 mm, respectively. In addition, MICs of AgNPs against A. niger, A. terreus, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus were 125, 62.5, 15.62, and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the ultrastructural study confirmed the antifungal effect of AgNPs, where the cell wall's integrity and homogeneity were lost; the cell membrane had separated from the cell wall and had intruded into the cytoplasm. In conclusion, the biosynthesized AgNPs using a CFE of B. thuringiensis can be used as a promising antifungal agent against Aspergillus species causing Aspergillosis.

Exploration of a novel and efficient source for production of bacterial nanocellulose, bioprocess optimization and characterization

The demand for bacterial nanocellulose is expected to rise in the coming years due to its wide usability in many applications. Hence, there is a continuing need to screen soil samples from various sources to isolate a strain with a high capacity for bacterial nanocellulose production. Bacillus sp. strain SEE-12, which was isolated from a soil sample collected from Barhiem, Menoufia governorate, Egypt, displayed high BNC production under submerged fermentation. Bacillus sp. strain SEE-12 was identified as Bacillus tequilensis strain SEE-12. In static cultures, BNC was obtained as a layer grown in the air liquid interface of the fermentation medium. The response surface methodology was used to optimise the process parameters. The highest BNC production (22.8 g/L) was obtained using 5 g/L peptone, 5 g/L yeast extract, 50%, v/v Cantaloupe juice, 5 g/L Na₂HPO₄, 1.5 g/L citric acid, pH 5, medium volume of 100 mL/250 mL conical flask, inoculum size 5%, v/v, temperature 37 °C and incubation time 6 days. The BNC was purified and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

A green and environmental sustainable approach to synthesis the Mn oxide nanomaterial from Punica granatum leaf extracts and its in vitro biological applications

Pathogenic fungal infections in fruit cause economic losses and have deleterious effects on human health globally. Despite the low pH and high water contents of vegetables and fresh, ripened fruits, they are prone to fungal and bacterial diseases. The ever-increasing resistance of phytopathogens toward pesticides, fungicides and bactericides has resulted in substantial threats to plant growth and production in recent years. However, plant-mediated nanoparticles are useful tools for combating parasitic fungi and bacteria. Herein, we synthesized biogenic manganese oxide nanoparticles (MnONPs) from an extract of Punica granatum (P. granatum), and these nanoparticles showed significant antifungal and antibacterial activities. The production of MnONPs from plant extracts was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and UV visible spectroscopy (UV). The surface morphology and shape of the nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Using a detached fruit method, the MnONPs were shown to exhibit significant antimicrobial activities against two bacterial strains, E. coli and S. aureus, and against the fungal species P. digitatum. The results revealed that the MnONPs had a minimum antimicrobial activity at 25 µg/mL and a maximum antimicrobial activity at 100 µg/mL against bacterial strains in lemon (citrus). Furthermore, the MnONPs exhibited significant ROS scavenging activity. Finally, inconclusive results from the green-synthesized MnONPs magnified their significant synergetic effects on the shelf life of tomatoes (Lycopercicum esculantum) and indicated that they could be used to counteract the phytopathological effects of postharvest fungal diseases in fruits and vegetables. Overall, this method of MnONPs synthesis is inexpensive, rapid and ecofriendly. MnONPs can be used as potential antimicrobial agents against different microbial species.

Applications of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles in Theranostics

Nanotechnology sculptures the current scenario of science and technology. The word nano refers 'small' which ranges from 10 to 100 nm in size. Silver and gold nanoparticles can be synthesized at nanoscale and have unique biological properties like antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor activity. In this mini review, we shall discuss the various applications of silver and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in the field of therapy, imaging, biomedical devices and in cancer diagnosis. The usage of silver nanoparticles(AgNPs) in dentistry and dental implants, therapeutic abilities like wound dressings, silver impregnated catheters, ventricular drainage catheters, combating orthopedic infections, and osteointegration will be elaborated. Gold nanoparticles in recent years have garnered large importance in bio medical applications. They are being used in diagnosis and have recently seen a surge in therapeutics. In this mini review, we shall see about the various applications of AuNP and AgNP, and highlight their evolution in theranostics.

Optimization of Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Conjugated with Lepechinia meyenii (Salvia) Using Plackett-Burman Design and Response Surface Methodology—Preliminary Antibacterial Activity

In the present investigation, an ethanolic fraction (EF) of Lepechinia meyenii (salvia) was prepared and fractionated by gradient column chromatography, and the main secondary metabolites present in the EF were identified by HPLC-MS. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized and conjugated with the EF of Lepechinia meyenii (salvia). The AgNPs synthesis was optimized using Plackett-Burman design and response surface methodology (RSM), considering the following independent variables: stirring speed, synthesis pH, synthesis time, synthesis temperature and EF volume. The AgNPs synthesized under the optimized conditions were characterized by UV visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM). The antibacterial activity of the AgNPs against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC® 25923) was evaluated. The following flavonoids were identified: rosmarinic acid, diosmin and hesperetin-7-O-rutinoside. The optimized conditions for the synthesis of nanoparticles were pH 9.45, temperature 49.8 °C, volume of ethanolic fraction 152.6 µL and a reaction time of 213.2 min. The obtained AgNPs exhibited an average size of 43.71 nm and a resonance plasmon of 410–420 nm. Using FT-IR spectroscopy, the disappearance of the peaks between 626.50 and 1379.54 cm−1 was evident with the AgNPs, which would indicate the participation of these functional groups in the synthesis and protection of the nanoparticles. A hydrodynamic size of 47.6 nm was obtained by DLS, while a size of 40–60 nm was determined by STEM. The synthesized AgNPs conjugated with the EF showed a higher antibacterial activity than the EF alone. These results demonstrate that the AgNPs synthesized under optimized conditions conjugated with the EF of the Lepechinia meyenii (salvia) presented an increased antibacterial activity.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles with High Antibacterial Activity Using Cell Extracts of Cyanobacterium Pseudanabaena/Limnothrix sp

In this work, we demonstrated the ability of the cyanobacterium Pseudanabaena/Limnothrix sp. to produce ultra-small silver nanoparticlesin the forms of metallic silver (Ag0) and silver oxides (AgxOy) via a facile green synthetic process. The biological compounds in the cyanobacterial cellular extract acted both as reducing agents for silver ions and functional stabilizing agents for the silver nanoparticles. Furthermore, the antibacterical activity of the as-synthesized nanoparticles against Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Gram-positive Corynebacterium glutamicum bacterial cells was evaluated. The experimental results revealed a remarkable bactericidal activity of the nanoparticles that was both time-dependent and dose-dependent. In addition to their excellent bactericidal properties, the developed nanoparticles can be used as nanosupports in various environmental, biological, and medical applications.

Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles from Eruca sativa Miller Leaf Extract Exhibits Antibacterial, Antioxidant, Anti-Quorum-Sensing, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Metastatic Activities

Worldwide, the primary problem today is the proliferation of cancer and secondary bacterial infections caused by biofilms, as they are the principal causes of death due to the lack of effective drugs. A great deal of biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have made them a brilliant choice for the development of new drugs in recent years. The present study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer, antibacterial, anti-QS, and antibiofilm effects of AgNPs synthesized from Eruca sativa (E. sativa) leaf extract. The ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectra showed a peak of surface plasmon resonance at 424 nm λmax, which corresponded to AgNP formation. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) confirmed that biological moieties are involved for the development of AgNPs. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses confirmed the spherical shape and uniform size (8.11 to 15 nm) of the AgNPs. In human lung cancer cells (A549), the anticancer potential of AgNPs was examined by the MTT [3-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay, scratch assay, and invasion assay. The results indicated that AgNPs inhibit the migration of A549 cells. The synthesized AgNPs showed MIC values of 12.5 µg/mL against Chromobacterium violaceum (C. violaceum) and 25 µg/mL against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), which demonstrated their antibacterial abilities. Biological compounds that disable the QS system are being investigated as potential strategies for preventing bacterial infections. Thus, we analyzed the potential effectiveness of synthesized AgNPs in inhibiting QS-regulated virulence factors and biofilm formation in both strains of bacteria. In C. violaceum, the synthesized AgNPs significantly inhibited both violacein (85.18% at 1/2 × MIC) and acyl homoserine lactone (78.76% at 1/2 × MIC). QS inhibitory activity was also demonstrated in P. aeruginosa at a sub-MIC concentration (1/2 × MIC) by a reduction in pyocyanin activity (68.83%), total protease (68.50%), LasA activity (63.91%), and LasB activity (56.40%). Additionally, the exopolysaccharide production was significantly reduced in both C. violaceum (65.79% at 1/2 × MIC) and P. aeruginosa (57.65% at 1/2 × MIC). The formation of biofilm was also significantly inhibited at 1/2 × MIC in C. violaceum (76.49%) and in P. aeruginosa (65.31%). Moreover, a GC–MS analysis confirmed the presence of different classes of bioactive phytochemical constituents present in the leaf extract of E. sativa. On the basis of our results, we conclude that biologically synthesized AgNPs showed numerous multifunctional properties and have the potential to be used against human cancer and bacterial biofilm-related infections.