Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Causes Cell Death by Inducing Oxidative Stress in MRC-5 Cell Line

This study showcases the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by the utilization of Borovnica extract (Vaccinium myrtillus) and Bosiljak extract (Ocimum basilicum) in a simple and non-toxic one-step procedure. The method is described as eco-friendly, uncomplicated, and economical, utilizing a water-based plant extract that acts as both a reducing and stabilizing agent for AgNPs. The VM-AgNPs and OB-AgNPs were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). UV-Vis spectroscopy detected surface plasmon resonance (SPR) at a wavelength of 305 nm and 344 nm in the VM-AgNPs and OB-AgNPs solutions, respectively. The investigation of VM-AgNPs and OB-AgNPs using FESEM revealed the presence of oval-shaped NPs with average sizes of 52 nm and 55 nm, respectively. While TEM analysis showed similar observation with average size of 80 nm and 35 nm, respectively. Both VM-AgNPs and OB-AgNPs showed cytotoxic properties against healthy lung pleura fibroblasts (MRC-5), resulting in a reduction in cell viability that was dependent on the dosage. The inhibitory concentration (IC50) in VM-AgNPs and OB-AgNPs treated group was calculated to be 25.89 ± 1.41 μg/ml and 8.41 ± 1.00 μg/ml, respectively. Moreover, the study investigated the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the toxicity to cells. It was noted that both NPs induce oxidative stress over time in MRC-5 cell lines in a dose-depended manner.