Marine Cyanobacteria-Assisted Metallic Nanoparticles: A Review on Anticancer Activity and Mechanism of Action

Marine cyanobacteria, known as blue-green algae, are ancient microorganisms with oxygenic photosynthetic capability. They have diverse biochemical capabilities, including production of bioactive secondary metabolites. We studied the anti-cancer properties of cyanobacterial nanoparticles through various literatures. We focused on mechanistic studies of the anticancer properties of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. Our research gathered information from patent databases, conference abstracts, publications, and news releases, as well as PubMed searches for peer-reviewed articles and Google searches for gray literature. We used strict criteria for selecting sources, and our search ended on 30 October, 2022. Metal nanoparticles, such as gold and silver, have unique physicochemical properties, making them suitable for therapeutic applications in nanomedicine. Cyanobacteria-assisted synthesis is environmentally sustainable and results in mild reaction conditions and minimal toxic byproducts. These nanoparticles have potential applications in cancer therapy, including drug delivery systems and targeted therapies. This study further explored the mechanistic aspects of cancer development, emphasising the role of genetic mutations, uncontrolled cell growth, and metastasis. Cyanobacterial biogenic nanoparticles demonstrate cytotoxicity, apoptosis induction, ROS generation, and immunomodulation, contributing to their anticancer efficacy. Additionally, these nanoparticles serve as carriers for drug delivery, enabling the targeted and controlled release of therapeutic agents. The review ends by emphasising how crucial it is to comprehend how cyanobacteria extract assists metallic nanoparticles. Cyanobacterial biogenic synthesis using microemulsion synthesis methods, UV-initiated photoreduction, microwave assistance, and polymer/polysaccharide-mediated approaches was investigated. The field of marine cyanobacteria, biogenic metal nanoparticles, and their anticancer potential is dynamic and has important implications for future therapeutic approaches.