Synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Pedalium murex L. and its antiproliferative activity against breast cancer (MCF-7) cells

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles using plant extracts have become a promising substitute for conventional method due to its bio-compatibility and its applications. In this study, we have reported low-cost synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from leaf extract of Pedalium murex. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles were further confirmed and characterized using UV-Visible spectrophotometer, scanning and transmission electron microscopy examination. UV-Visible spectra showed a surface resonance peak at 425 nm corresponding to the formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). TEM analysis revealed a pseudo spherical morphology and a small size of 11 nm. Synthesized nanoparticles showed a remarkable antimicrobial property at 12 µg/ml against the human pathogenic organisms used. A dose-dependent activity against breast cancer (MCF-7) cells were observed with an IC50 values of 65.60 µg/mL for the synthesized silver nanoparticles. Moreover, the inhibitory efficiency increased as the concentration of the synthesized nanoparticles were increased. Overall, the study suggested that the synthesized nanoparticles from Pedalium murex can be an eco-friendly applicant and further studies have to be carried out to understand the potential aspects against the treatment of breast cancer cells.