Caffeic acid functionalized silver nanoparticles: A bionanoformulation and its assessment of cell cycle and in vitro cytotoxicity

Abstract

Caffeic acid, a potent polyphenol belonging to the hydroxycinnamic acid derivative class, was utilized in the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) at ambient temperature. The resultant conjugates underwent comprehensive characterization employing various analytical techniques, including UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, RAMAN spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS) for size and zeta potential analysis, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Through these analyses, the morphological characteristics of the synthesized nanoparticles were elucidated, providing valuable insights into their structural properties. Subsequently, the cytotoxic effects of the caffeic acid-synthesized silver nanoparticles were assessed against A549 cells over a 48-h period by MTT assay. Remarkably, these nanoparticles exhibited significant toxicity towards the cells, with inhibitory effects observed at concentrations of 141 μg/ml for CA AgNPs. This underscores their potential as potent agents against cancer cells. Furthermore, the profound significance of caffeic acid-synthesized silver nanoparticles was evaluated specifically against A549 lung cancer cells. This was corroborated through cell cycle analysis, which demonstrated the potent anticancer activity of the caffeic acid-synthesized silver nanoparticles. Such findings suggest promising prospects for their utilization in diverse cancer treatment modalities. Overall, the successful synthesis and characterization of caffeic acid-synthesized silver nanoparticles underscore their potential as potent agents against cancer, particularly in combating A549 lung cancer cells. Further research and exploration into their mechanisms of action and potential synergistic effects with existing anticancer therapies could unveil additional avenues for their clinical translation and utilization in cancer management.