Design and Optimization of Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Functionalized with Folic Acid and Curcumin-HC for Targeted Breast Cancer Treatment
Main Article Content
Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer remains a leading global health concern, with rising incidence and mortality rates. Conventional treatments face challenges like systemic toxicity and drug resistance, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies. This study explores a green-synthesized, folic acid-functionalized curcumin-silver nanoparticle system for targeted breast cancer therapy, enhancing drug bioavailability, therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing adverse effects.
Objectives: Developing green-synthesized, folic acid-functionalized curcumin-silver nanoparticles for targeted breast cancer therapy, enhancing bioavailability, efficacy, and reducing toxicity.
Methods: Houttuynia cordata roots were extracted using hydroalcoholic maceration. Green-synthesized AgNPs were prepared by mixing AgNO₃ with H. cordata extract. PEGylation was achieved via ligand exchange, followed by curcumin conjugation. Folic acid functionalization was conducted using EDC/NHS activation. Nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, FT-IR, TEM, SEM, and zeta potential analysis. Drug loading, entrapment efficiency, and in-vitro curcumin release were evaluated. Cytotoxicity studies on MCF-7 cells included MTT assays and AO-EtBr dual staining for apoptosis detection.
Results: The study synthesized folic acid- and curcumin-functionalized silver nanoparticles (FA-Cur-Hc-AgNPs) using Houttuynia cordata extract. Characterization confirmed stability, efficient drug loading (72–94.12%), and pH-responsive curcumin release (73.32% at pH 5.5). FA-Cur-Hc-AgNPs exhibited cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells, inducing apoptosis. These findings highlight their potential as a targeted nanotherapeutic for breast cancer treatment.
Conclusions: FA-Cur-Hc-AgNPs were successfully synthesized and functionalized, demonstrating stability, targeted delivery, and pH-responsive drug release. They exhibited potent cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells, inducing apoptosis. These findings highlight their potential as a promising nanotherapeutic for breast cancer, suggesting further in-vivo studies.