Pharmacological Applications of Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles in Drug Development

Abstract

Green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising nanomaterials in pharmaceutical research and drug development due to their unique physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and multifunctional therapeutic activities. Conventional nanoparticle synthesis methods often involve toxic chemicals and energy-intensive procedures, whereas green synthesis utilizes biological resources such as medicinal plants, microorganisms, and natural biomolecules as reducing and stabilizing agents. This eco-friendly approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also enhances the biological functionality of nanoparticles through phytochemical surface modification. The present study reviews the pharmacological applications of green synthesized silver nanoparticles and their significance in modern drug development. Plant-derived AgNPs possess remarkable antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, and wound-healing properties. These biological activities are largely attributed to their nanoscale dimensions, high surface area-to-volume ratio, enhanced cellular uptake, and synergistic interactions between silver and phytochemicals. Green synthesized AgNPs have demonstrated substantial efficacy against drug-resistant pathogens, oxidative stress-related disorders, inflammatory diseases, and various cancer cell lines. Recent advances in nanomedicine have enabled the incorporation of silver nanoparticles into targeted drug delivery systems, controlled-release formulations, tissue engineering scaffolds, biosensors, and biomedical coatings. Their ability to improve drug bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic efficiency has made them attractive candidates for next-generation pharmaceutical formulations. Furthermore, silver nanoparticles facilitate enhanced permeability and retention (EPR)-mediated tumor targeting, thereby improving anticancer drug delivery while minimizing adverse effects on healthy tissues.

The findings indicate that green synthesized silver nanoparticles offer a sustainable and highly versatile platform for pharmaceutical innovation. Their integration into advanced drug delivery systems and therapeutic formulations is expected to play a crucial role in the future development of safer, more effective, and environmentally responsible nanomedicines.