Checking the Biocompatibility of Plant-Derived Metallic Nanoparticles: Molecular Perspectives

Trends Biotechnol. 2016 Jun;34(6):440-449. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.02.005. Epub 2016 Mar 3.

Abstract

Understanding the biocompatibility of metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) is pivotal for biomedical applications. The biocompatibility of plant-derived MNPs has been mostly attributed to capped plant molecules. This claim seems to be straightforward but lacks conclusive evidence. The capped phytochemicals and the metallic core might have decisive and individual roles in imparting the overall biocompatibility. Whether capped phytochemicals really make sense in diminishing the toxicity effect of the otherwise naked or metallic core needs further analysis. Here, we readdress the biocompatibility of plant-derived MNPs with references to contemporary cellular assays, different reactants for green synthesis, possible epigenetic involvement, and nanobiocompatibility at the molecular level. Finally, we discuss relevant in vivo studies and large-scale production issues.

Keywords: biocompatibility; cellular assay; epigenetics; metallic nanoparticles; nanobiocompatibility; phytochemicals.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biological Assay / methods
  • Cytological Techniques / methods
  • Materials Testing / methods*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / toxicity*
  • Plant Extracts / chemistry
  • Plant Extracts / toxicity
  • Plants / chemistry*
  • Plants / toxicity*
  • Tissue Array Analysis / methods*
  • Toxicity Tests / methods*

Substances

  • Plant Extracts