Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Co-Loaded with Curcumin and Folic Acid: A Synergistic Approach for Breast Cancer Therapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Breast cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, underscoring the need for targeted and effective therapeutic strategies. This study presents the biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Houttuynia cordata extract as a reducing and stabilizing agent, followed by curcumin (Cur) loading and folic acid (FA) functionalization for selective breast cancer therapy. The nanoparticles were characterized via UV–Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), confirming nanoscale formation, stability, and morphology. Zeta potential analysis demonstrated enhanced colloidal stability, while FTIR verified biomolecular binding. Curcumin, a potent anticancer compound with poor bioavailability, was efficiently encapsulated, and FA conjugation enabled targeted delivery to folate receptor-overexpressing breast cancer cells. FA-Cur-AgNPs exhibited improved stability, higher cellular uptake, and greater selective cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells compared to free Cur or AgNPs alone. MTT assay revealed significant dose-dependent cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ = 5313.34 ppm), and AO/EtBr staining confirmed apoptosis induction. The formulation also displayed pH-responsive drug release, facilitating controlled delivery in the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that FA-functionalized, curcumin-loaded biogenic silver nanoparticles (FA-Cur-Hc-AgNPs) represent a promising green nanotherapeutic platform, enhancing drug bioavailability, selectivity, and anticancer efficacy while minimizing systemic toxicity.