Therapeutic Potential of Plant-Based Green Synthesized Nanoparticles for Enhanced Anti-Cancer Activity

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Cancer results from genetic mutations that control the cell division cycle, leading to the uncontrollable growth and division of normal body cells. Various drugs are available to cure cancer, although conventional chemotherapy agents are poorly absorbed, rapidly cleared by the kidneys, and irregularly distributed, and are associated with significant side effects. Green synthesis of Nanoparticles (NPs), which makes use of plant materials, has been recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional synthesis methods. The environment-friendly nanoparticles, which have been developed, have gained considerable interest in recent times because of their potential to be used in many biological applications. Recent investigations have revealed that the nanoparticles are being employed positively in the cure and diagnosis of various medical applications, including cancer, wounds, and drug delivery systems. Currently, various metal nanoparticles are being synthesized to cure and diagnose cancer in the body. Some of the most popular metal nanoparticles are copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag), and gold (Au). Their therapeutic efficacy is mediated via multiple interconnected mechanisms such as Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA damage, modulation of intracellular signaling pathways, and activation of apoptosis, necrosis, or autophagy. These biological effects are highly dependent on size, shape, dose response, surface functionality, and tumor microenvironment for NP interactions. This review suggests that there has been significant advancement in the green synthesis of metallic NPs mediated by plants and discusses their potential as anticancer agents, mechanisms of action, and influencing factors.