GREEN-SYNTHESIZED SELENIUM NANOPARTICLES AS POTENTIAL ANTICANCER AGENTS: MOLECULAR SIGNALLING AND CELLULAR RESPONSES

Abstract

Background: Selenium nano particles synthesised in a bio friendly manner are emerging as a strong alternative to conventional chemotherapy because of their enhanced biological activity and selective cytotoxicity. The anti-cancer effect of green synthesised SeNPs was mainly by induction of apoptosis, DNA fragmentation and cellular damage. Green synthesis is preferred because its more biocompatible, cost effective and additional benefits like antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory from the plant extract coated on SeNPs. Aim: To evaluate the anti-cancer effect of green synthesized selenium nanoparticles based on their cytotoxic activity, target specificity, MOA and effect against various cancer cell lines. Method: Many relevant In vitro and In vivo studies were conducted against various types of cell lines using SeNPs coated with various plant extracts. Result: Green synthesized SeNPs showed enhanced anticancer activity against various cancers like breast, prostate, cervical, colon, etc., and plant extracts used to synthesise them made the nanoparticles more biocompatible and gave additional benefits like antimicrobial, antiviral and anti inflammatory effects. Compared to conventional therapy, treatment using SeNPs showed better target specificity towards tumour cells. Conclusion: Thus, there is no doubt that SeNPs showed better results. However more standardized in vivo experiments should be conducted to ensure more safe and secure application.