Evaluation of the anti-cancer properties of green zinc nanoparticles from Tamarix aphylla extract against the MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma cell line

Abstract

Background: Plants play a crucial role in the treatment and prevention of cancer and various illnesses worldwide, as they contain active biomedical compounds. Additionally, they possess essential chemicals for the green Synthesis of Nano-Sized particles. The advantageous impact of Zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) derived from Tamarix aphylla (TA) leaves has not been thoroughly investigated against cancers, especially breast adenocarcinoma, which has the highest prevalence among women. Aim: In this study, we use zinc nanoparticles prepared from T. aphylla leaves methanolic extracts (TAME) to evaluate the antioxidant and anticancer potential against DPPH and breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF-7), respectively. Methods: Different ratios of ZnNO3 and Tamarix methanolic extract (2:1, 4:1, 6:1, 8:1, 10:1) were incubated at 25C^o and monitored for discoloration. The samples turned brown after 10 minutes, indicating ZnNPs production in the solutions. Results: The current study demonstrated significant differences (P<0.05) of (TAME), as assessed through both antioxidant (DPPH test) and anticancer (MCF-7) evaluations, when compared to normal controls.

Conclusion: In summary, the contemporary method of utilizing green-sourced nanoparticles diminishes the adverse effects of chemotherapy while enhancing the anticancer and antioxidant efficacy of plant extracts. Finally, extensive studies are required to confirm the pharmaceutical manipulation and clinical application of this product.