Synthesis of Zinc Nanoparticles in <i>Ficus religiosa L</i> Leaf Extract and Investigation of Anticancer Properties of Uterine Cancer Cells (Hela)

Background: The aim was to study the synthesis of zinc nanoparticles in Ficus religiosa L leaf extract and investigate their anticancer properties on uterine cancer cells (Hela) and antibacterial activity. Methods: Anticancer and antimicrobial activity was investigated using MTT and microdilution methods on uterine cancer cell lines and pathogenic bacteria. Results: The results of this study showed that the highest diameter of the inhibition zone was at a concentration of 1024 micrograms per mL of zinc nanoparticles on Streptococcus pneumoniae (6 mm), while the lowest diameter of the inhibition zone was observed on Proteus mirabilis (1 mm). By observing the results in all three graphs, it was noted that only at 48 hours and at a dose of 1024 μg/mL did we witness the highest rate of cancer cell mortality, to the extent that this dose at this time point had a significant difference compared to the control group. Conclusions: The results of the study showed that synthetic zinc nanoparticles have excellent anticancer and antimicrobial properties and can be introduced as an effective drug in the treatment of uterine cancer.