Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and their Polymer Composites for Enhanced Antimicrobial and Anticancer Applications

This PhD thesis focuses on the development of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized through eco-friendly methods using plant and bacterial extracts. The research demonstrates that these green-synthesized nanoparticles outperform
chemically produced ones in terms of antimicrobial and anticancer efficacy. Silver nanoparticles synthesized from extracts of Crassula ovata (Jade plant) and Bacillus licheniformis show strong activity against harmful pathogens, including multidrugresistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The study also investigates the incorporation of these nanoparticles into chitosan-based films, combined with gentamicin, to create a multifunctional
nanocomposite. This composite demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial efficacy at lower concentrations, making it a promising candidate for wound healing and localized drug delivery.

A major focus of this research also lies in exploring the anticancer potential of green-synthesized AgNPs. Through mechanisms like inducing oxidative stress and promoting cell death (apoptosis), these nanoparticles effectively targeted lung,
prostate, and colorectal cancer cells, making them promising candidates for innovative cancer therapies.

The future implications of this research are vast, ranging from improving antimicrobial therapies in hospitals to the development of nanoparticle-based cancer treatments. Further studies could lead to their use in medical devices, implants, or drug delivery systems, enhancing both their therapeutic efficacy and environmental sustainability.