First report on Justicia adhatoda mediated green synthesis and characterization of copper nanoparticles with potent anticancer activity against MDA-MB-231 cells
摘要
A novel green synthesis approach was developed for the fabrication of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) using leaf extract of Justicia adhatoda (L) fam. Acanthaceace. The phytochemical constituents of J. adhatoda, including vasicine, vasicinone, and polyphenols, acted as dual reducing and capping agents, facilitating rapid nanoparticle formation without the need for additional stabilizers. The successful synthesis of CuNPs was confirmed by UV–Vis spectroscopy, which exhibited a characteristic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at approximately 277 nm. FTIR spectra revealed the presence of plant-derived functional groups involved in nanoparticle stabilization. Morphological characterization by SEM and TEM demonstrated predominantly spherical, layered structures with an average particle size of 47 nm. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis showed a narrow hydrodynamic size distribution, while the zeta potential (− 25.6 mV) indicated strong colloidal stability. The biosynthesized CuNPs exhibited significant, dose-dependent cytotoxicity against triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cells. Fluorescence microscopy further confirmed apoptosis-associated morphological alterations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of J. adhatoda mediated CuNPs exhibiting potent anti-MDA-MB-231 activity, suggesting their potential as a sustainable and cost-effective nanomaterial for biomedical applications. This article aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) of the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Graphical abstract