Cancer cell specific cytotoxic potential of the silver nanoparticles synthesized using the endophytic fungus, Penicillium citrinum CGJ-C2

Abstract

Myco-nanobiotechnology is one of the evolving fields of research and have contributed tremendously in generating new openings and applications in nanomedicine. In the present study, we have synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the endophytic fungi P. citrinum CGJ-C2 isolated from T. involucrata. The AgNPs were characterized by the UV–vis spectrophotometer (UV–vis), high resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The AgNPs were tested for antioxidant activity by DPPH assay; and their impact on the cell viability was assayed using XTT against the MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), A431 (skin carcinoma), HepG2 (hepatoma), and HEK-293 (human embryonic kidney) cell lines. In addition, DNA fragmentation and larvicidal potential has been studied. The particle sizes of AgNPs were within 2−20 nm as confirmed by the spectral techniques. The AgNPs showed the concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against A431, HepG2, MCF-7 carcinoma cells, without affecting the HEK-293 (non-cancer origin) cells. The DNA fragmentation assay demonstrated an apoptotic potential of the AgNPs in the MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, the AgNPs were able to scavenge the DPPH free radicals and inhibit the growth of mosquito larvae. These “green” AgNPs can further be exploited to develop as novel therapeutic agents against cancer and related diseases.