Green Synthesis, Characterization, And Assessment Of Cytotoxic Activity Of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Calotropis Gigantea Leaf Extract Against THP-1 And PC-3 Cancer Cell Lines

Abstract

Nanotechnology has emerged as a pivotal field with diverse applications, particularly in biomedicine, due to the unique properties of nanoparticles such as high surface area to volume ratios and distinctive optical, magnetic, and chemical characteristics. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant attention for their potential in cancer therapy, drug delivery, and antimicrobial applications. Traditional methods of nanoparticle synthesis often involve toxic chemicals, prompting the need for eco-friendly alternatives. This study explores the green synthesis of AgNPs using Calotropis gigantea leaf extract, a plant known for its medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-Visible spectroscopy, XRD, FESEM, EDX, FT-IR, DLS, and Zeta potential analysis, confirming their crystalline structure, morphology, and stability. The cytotoxic activity of the biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated against THP-1 (human leukaemia) and PC-3 (prostate cancer) cell lines using the MTT assay. Results demonstrated significant anti-proliferative effects, with IC50 values of 17.22±0.1007 µl/ml for THP-1 and 26.18±0.047 µl/ml for PC-3 cells, indicating potent cytotoxic activity. The findings highlight the potential of C. gigantea-mediated AgNPs as a promising anticancer agent, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to conventional cancer therapies. This research underscores the importance of green synthesis in developing nanomaterials with significant biomedical applications, particularly in oncology.