In vivo antitumor activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles using Ficus religiosa as a nanofactory in DAL induced mice model

Ficus religiosa leaf extract was chosen as a reducing agent to fabricate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by a simple, cost-effective and eco-friendly process with the aim of treating Daltonʹs ascites lymphoma (DAL) in mice model. The formation of synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV–visible analysis (UV–vis), Fourier transform infra-red (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and zeta potential analyses. A peak at 431 nm indicated the surface plasmon resonance of AgNPs. FTIR studies indicated polyphenols and proteins as possible encapsulates. TEM analysis showed particles size in the range of 5–35 nm. Healthy Swiss Albino mice (30–35 g) were intraperitoneally induced with DAL cells and treated with F. religiosa derived AgNPs at a dose of 50 μg/ml. Blood and liver tissues were collected subsequent to dissection and subjected to hematological, biochemical and anticancer assays. Hematological and biochemical analyses revealed revival after treating with F. religiosa derived AgNPs. Antioxidant activity results further proved supportive evidence. The apoptosis inducing effect of AgNPs was observed through acridine orange staining (AO and EB) and DNA fragmentation assay. Anti- angiogenic activity was confirmed by observing vessel development. All these observations indicate that the AgNPs were effective in treatment of DAL.