Biosynthesis of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Using Okra Pods Extract and Its Anticancer Activity on WiDr Colon Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers globally, with a 50% mortality rate. Current treatments mainly involve surgery and chemotherapy. This led to the discovery of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), which are less toxic than traditional treatments. This study evaluates the green synthesis of IONPs using okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) extract (IONP-Okra) and their anticancer potential. IONP-Okra was synthesized using 3% okra extract with pH variation (3, 6, 8, and 11). Characterization of IONP-Okra was conducted through ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometry, particle size analysis (PSA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). UV-Vis results showed absorption peaks at 288-298 nm wavelengths, while PSA showed particle size distribution from 3-530 nm depending on pH variations. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of Fe-O bonds in 457-530 cm-1 and organic groups as reducers and stabilizers for IONPs. XRD results indicated the formed iron oxide nanoparticles were amorphous with the Fe3O4 phase. The pH 8 sample was selected for toxicity testing on WiDr colon cancer cells using MTT assay. The MTT results showed the cytotoxicity ability of IONP-Okra against WiDr colon cancer cells in the concentration range of 10-50 μg/mL. ANOVA and Duncan's post hoc tests revealed significant differences between the control and all treatment groups. In summary, it can be concluded that okra extract effectively acts as a reducing and capping agent in IONP synthesis. IONP-Okra has proven anticancer properties against WiDr colon cancer cells.