Anti-cancer activity of biogenic silver nanoparticles against Neuroblastoma cells

ABSTRACT Purpose: Neuroblastoma (NB) is one of the solid tumors diagnosed in young children. Due to severe side effects associated with the current therapeutic options, it is important to identify less toxic therapies for treating NB patients. Nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in various medical applications; however, the particle size and preparation methods play critical roles in their activity. Recently use of plant extracts as stabilizing or reducing agents is gaining significance due to higher stability and activity. Biogenic silver nanoparticles (BSNPs) have been tested for their activity in wound healing mechanism and preventing microbial diseases. The objective of this investigation was to prepare BSNPs using plant extracts and silver nanoparticles and evaluate their anti-cancer activity against neuroblastoma (NB) cell lines. BSNPs were prepared using two different plant extracts and characterized. SHSY5Y and LA155n cells were treated with increasing concentrations of BSNPs for 48 h and dose curves obtained. The effect of BSNPs on apoptosis and cell cycle arrest was evaluated to understand the underlying mechanisms. Method: BSNPs were synthesized using silver NPs and herbal reducing agents. These particles were characterized by Atomic Force Microscope and Transmission Electron Microscope. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to identify the active herbal compounds along with silver nanoparticles. The cell viability of NB cells was measured using Cell Titer-Glo kit. Apoptotic cells distribution were determined by Flow cytometry using annexin V staining The expression of cleaved Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase (cPARP) was evaluated by western blot. Results:. The characterization of BSNPs revealed alkynes, amines and alkylhalides as reducing agents and particles were ranged 20-100 nm in size. BSNPs caused significantly more cell growth inhibition when compared to silver NPs which is accompanied by an increase in apoptotic markers, c-PARP expression and annexin-v staining. Conclusion: These preliminary data using different reducing agents suggest the potential anti- proliferative effect of BSNPs against NB cells.