Green synthesis of copper nanoparticles: a promising solution for drug resistance and cancer therapy challenges

J Egypt Natl Canc Inst. 2024 Dec 28;36(1):44. doi: 10.1186/s43046-024-00254-y.

Abstract

Green synthesis techniques have drawn a lot of interest lately since they are beneficial to the environment and have potential uses in a variety of industries, including biomedicine. Because of their special physicochemical characteristics, copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) have become one of the most interesting options for use in biological applications among nanomaterials. An overview of green synthesis methods for CuNPs is given in this review, along with a discussion of their applications in cancer therapeutics. The benefits and drawbacks of certain green synthesis techniques, such as plant-mediated, microorganism-mediated, and other environmentally friendly processes, are discussed. Moreover, a thorough discussion is given of CuNPs' biological uses, including their antibacterial activity, anticancer potential, drug transport, and bioimaging capabilities. Furthermore, difficulties and prospects for the application of green-synthesised CuNPs in biomedicine are discussed.

Keywords: Active delivery; Antibacterial activity; Anticancer potential; Biomedicine; Copper nanoparticles; Cytotoxicity; Drug delivery; Green synthesis; Passive delivery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Copper* / chemistry
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm* / drug effects
  • Green Chemistry Technology*
  • Humans
  • Metal Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Metal Nanoparticles* / therapeutic use
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Copper
  • Antineoplastic Agents