Title:Silver Nanoparticles in Cancer: Therapeutic Efficacy and Toxicity
VOLUME: 20 ISSUE: 6
Author(s):C. Ong, J.Z.Z. Lim, C-T. Ng, J.J. Li, L-Y.L. Yung and B-H. Bay
Affiliation:Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Block E5 #02-09, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore 117576 or Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 4 Medical Drive, Blk MD10, Singapore 117597.
Keywords:Nanotechnology, nanomaterials, silver nanoparticles, biomedical applications, toxicity, in vitro approach, in vivo study, cancer therapy, cancer detection, antimicrobial agents
Abstract:In recent years, there has been escalating interest in the biomedical applications of nanoparticles (NPs). In particular, silver
nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly being investigated as tools for novel cancer therapeutics, capitalizing on their unique properties to
enhance potential therapeutic efficacy. However, questions as to are we able to contain or control the toxicity effects of AgNPs, and how
much do we know about the toxicological profile of AgNPs which are commonly used in emerging nanotechnology-based applications,
still remain. Hence, serious considerations have to be given to the hazards and risks of toxicity associated with the use of AgNPs. This
review focuses on the current applications of AgNPs, their known effects and toxicity, as well as the potential of harnessing them for use
in cancer therapy.
