Cytotoxicity, Apoptotic properties and ROS expression of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from endophytic fungus Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae on Caco2 and HepG2 cell lines

Abstract

Nanotechnology has revolutionized biomedical applications, with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) gaining attention for their antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Traditional synthesis methods often involve toxic chemicals, prompting the need for eco-friendly alternatives. This study reports the green synthesis of AgNPs using the endophytic fungus Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae isolated from Gloriosa superba leaves. The biosynthesized PSEF2-AgNPs were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, TEM, XRD, zeta and DLS, revealing spherical morphology, crystalline structure, and stability with size 5–29 nm. The nanoparticles exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria and yeasts, along with significant antioxidant properties in DPPH and H₂O₂ scavenging assays. In vitro cytotoxicity studies demonstrated dose-dependent anticancer effects against Caco2 and HepG2 cell lines, with IC₅₀ values of 97.74 µg/mL and 96.54 µg/mL, respectively. Apoptotic induction was confirmed through Annexin V/PI staining, AO/EtBr fluorescence assays, and ROS generation, indicating oxidative stress-mediated cell death. These findings support the therapeutic potential of PSEF2-AgNPs as multifunctional agents. Future research should focus on in vivo validation, mechanistic studies, and scalable production to advance their clinical application.