In vitro anticancer activity of eco-friendly synthesized ZnO/ Ag nanocomposites

Ag nanoparticle-integrated ZnO nanoflakes (ZnO/Ag nanocomposite) were synthesized by a simple green method using Beta vulgaris (beetroot) extract and assessed for their potential in in vitro anticancer activity. Four Ag contents (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10%) were used in the composite (ZnO/Ag-2.5, ZnO/Ag-5, ZnO/Ag-7.5, and ZnO/ Ag-1.0, respectively) to examine the effects of Ag on the surface, structural, morphological, and bio-activities of the ZnO/Ag nanocomposite. Bandgap narrowing was observed due to the introduction of silver in the ZnO/Ag composites. These nanocomposites were examined for their cytotoxic effects in the cervical (HeLa) and ovarian (SKOV-3) carcinoma cell lines. The dose-dependent cytotoxicity was investigated by studying the cell viability assay, ROS generation, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) contents when the cell lines were exposed to the ZnO/ Ag composites for 48 h. Among the various ZnO/Ag composites produced, the ZnO/Ag 7.5 composite exhibited superior anticancer activity against HeLa and SKOV-3 cell lines. The Cell viability and ATP contents were reduced significantly in a dose-dependent manner, whereas ROS generation was increased appreciably.