Biogenic metallic nanoparticles as game-changers in targeted cancer therapy: recent innovations and prospects

Background Cancer is a significant global health issue, resulting from uncontrolled cell division leading to abnormal cell or tissue growth. Traditional chemotherapeutic techniques have investigated a wide variety of pharmaceutically active molecules despite their poor bioavailability, quick renal clearance, inconsistent distribution, and unavoidable side effects. Green synthesis, unlike chemical methods, prioritizes eco-friendliness and cost-effectiveness. Using natural sources like plant extracts, it minimizes environmental impact, reduces costs, and aligns with sustainability goals. Operating under milder conditions, it consumes less energy compared to traditional approaches. Green synthesis is a highly promising and efficient method for producing nanoparticles due to its versatility and scalability. Main body Nanotechnology is making progress in cancer treatment because of nanoparticles' tiny size, large surface area, adaptability, and functionality, as well as their potential to induce apoptotic pathways and fast penetration or internalization into cancer cells. Biosynthesis of metallic nanoparticles using plant or microbe extracts is attracting attention to replace toxic chemicals with phytochemicals that can act as reducing, capping, or stabilizing agents and improve metallic nanoparticles biocompatibility, antitumor, and antioxidant properties. This review focuses on biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles and their anticancer effects on breast, prostate, skin, cervical, colorectal, lung, and liver cancer. Conclusion Biosynthesis of nanoparticles for cancer therapy stands at the forefront of innovative and sustainable approaches. Despite challenges, ongoing research demonstrates the potential of biosynthesis to revolutionize cancer nanomedicine, emphasizing the need for continued exploration and collaboration in this rapidly advancing field. Overall, this review offers a comprehensive understanding of the most recent developments in biosynthesized metallic nanoparticles for the treatment of cancer as well as their potential future applications in medicine.