Differences in genotoxicity and cytotoxicity potentials of green and chemically synthesized silver nanoparticles

Background and Aims: In recent years, metal nanoparticles have been extensively synthesized for a variety of applications and have been used in large-scale research in various fields, such as chemistry, physics, life science, material science, medical science, and engineering, depending on their size and shape adjustment properties. In this study, we aimed to compare the effects of silver nanoparticles synthesized using two different methods on DNA damage and cell viability in human lymphocyte cultures. Methods: We introduced a green and simple method for the synthesis of AgNPs using endemic Onosma papillosa Riedl leaf extract as a reducing agent for the first time. Blood samples were collected in heparinized tubes from four healthy males, non-smokers, and healthy male. In this study, we used comet assay [Genetic Damage Index (GDI) and Damaged Cell Percentage (DCP)] and flow cytometry methods for genotoxicity and cytotoxicity. For comparison, commercially obtained AgNPs synthesized by chemical methods were used, with consideration given to the size of AgNPs synthesized via the green method. Results: Based on the results, it was determined that DNA damage caused by AgNPs synthesized through the green method in human lymphocyte cultures was not statistically significant compared with the negative control. AgNPs obtained by chemical synthesis caused, however, a statistically significant increase in the frequency of DNA damage compared with the negative control (p<0.001). The percentage of necrotic cells was 13.55±3.37 and 25.37±14.53 in cultures obtained by green and chemically synthesized AgNPs, respectively. Conclusion: Essentially, green synthesis can be recommended for use because of its lower toxicity compared with chemical synthesis.