In recent years much attention has been paid to the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their important medical applications. The current study employs Fusarium oxysporum for the formation of silver nanoparticles and examines the antimicrobial activity of the particles against some multidrug-resistant (MDR) microbes. Silver nitrate was transformed into silver oxide, forming well-dispersed nanoparticles, by the action of F. oxysporum metabolically. The size of the nanoparticles ranged from 21.3 to 37.3 nm, and UV-spectroscopy showed a peak at 408-411 nm. Moreover, SEM, TEM, and AFM results revealed spherical and oval shapes and showed no sign of aggregation. Furthermore, the FT-IR histogram detected amide I and amide II, which are responsible for the stability of AgNPs in the aqueous solution. The AgNPs halted the growth of MDR bacteria, including some members of Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus species at a concentration of 50% (v/v). The AgNPs also have the ability to inhibit pathogenic yeasts Candida albicans and Candida krusei. The AgNPs displayed antigrowth activity against MDR microbes, suggesting that they might be potential alternatives to antibiotics. However, additional studies may be necessary to substantiate the fact that the benefits of using nanoparticles outweigh the potential risks.
Eco-friendly silver nanoparticles (eco-AgNPs) represent a promising convergence of green nanotechnology and precision medicine for cancer treatment. This minireview examines the therapeutic potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized through eco-friendly methods using plant extracts and microorganisms. These eco-friendly AgNPs demonstrate enhanced biocompatibility and selective cytotoxicity against malignant cells. These nanoparticles target cancer through multiple mechanisms including reactive oxygen species generation, apoptosis induction, and cell cycle disruption. Selectivity is achieved through surface functionalization with targeting moieties such as antibodies and aptamers that recognize overexpressed tumor receptors. The integration of biomarker-guided design enables tumor-specific delivery by exploiting unique metabolic signatures and cellular markers characteristic of different cancer types. Furthermore, AgNP-based theranostic platforms offer simultaneous diagnostic imaging and therapeutic intervention, providing real-time assessment of treatment response and enabling personalized dosing strategies. However, clinical translation faces significant challenges including potential long-term toxicity, standardization of synthesis protocols, and regulatory approval pathways. Successful clinical implementation will require interdisciplinary collaboration to optimize nanoparticle design, establish safety profiles, and develop combination therapies that maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing side effects. Eco-AgNPs thus offer a transformative approach to cancer treatment that combines environmental sustainability with precision targeting capabilities.