Biogenically synthesized Moringa oleifera leaf extract-derived silver nanoparticles exhibit potent antimicrobial and anticancer effects via oxidative stress and apoptotic pathways in AGS gastric cancer cells

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) possess anticancer and targeted drug delivery potential. When synthesized biogenically, their biocompatibility and therapeutic efficacy are improved through capping with bioactive compounds. This study explores the anticancer potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using bioactive compounds from Moringa oleifera (MOAgNPs) against AGS gastric cancer cells. UV–Vis spectrometry confirmed MOAgNP synthesis with peaks at 255.72 and 301.04 nm, while FT-IR revealed O-H and carbonyl groups crucial for nanoparticle stability; DLS analysis showed a narrow particle size distribution with an average diameter of 30–35 nm, consistent with TEM observations. Microscopy confirmed spherical nanoparticles with a diameter of 30–35 nm, while a zeta potential of −24.9 mV indicated colloidal stability. MOAgNPs demonstrated cytotoxicity with an IC50 of 55.213 μg/mL, inducing ROS generation, apoptosis, and cellular morphology changes. Downregulation of key proteins involved in energy metabolism and apoptosis highlighted MOAgNPs' ability to impair vital cellular functions and enhance the sensitivity of drug-resistant cancer cells, suggesting their potential as effective anticancer agents for gastric cancer treatment.