THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF NANO-SILVER IN ONCOLOGY: INSIGHTS INTO MECHANISMS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22159/ijms.2025v13i6.56452Keywords:
Silver nanoparticles, Anticancer therapy, Preparation, Green synthesis, Reactive oxygen species(ROS)Abstract
Cancer remains a major global health challenge, necessitating the continuous development of innovative and effective treatment strategies. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising agents in anticancer drug therapy due to their unique physicochemical properties, including high surface area, biocompatibility, and ability to induce cytotoxic effects selectively in cancer cells. This review explores the synthesis methods, mechanisms of action, and therapeutic applications of AgNPs in cancer treatment. AgNPs exhibit potent anticancer effects through mechanisms such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, and apoptosis induction. Moreover, their ability to enhance drug delivery, improve bioavailability, and overcome multidrug resistance has garnered significant attention in oncological research. The combination of AgNPs with conventional chemotherapeutic agents, such as Camptothecin, Methotrexate, Gemcitabine, and Cisplatin, has demonstrated synergistic effects, leading to enhanced cytotoxicity and reduced side effects. In addition, the green synthesis of AgNPs using plant extracts has opened new avenues for eco-friendly and sustainable nanomedicine approaches. Despite these promising findings, challenges related to toxicity, stability, and clinical translation remain areas of active investigation. Further studies are required to optimize nanoparticle formulations, evaluate long-term biocompatibility, and establish their efficacy through clinical trials. This review highlights the potential of AgNPs as a versatile and efficient tool in anticancer drug therapy, paving the way for future advancements in nanomedicine-based oncology treatments.
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