Development of copper nanoparticles and their prospective uses as antioxidants, antimicrobials, anticancer agents in the pharmaceutical sector

Abstract

In this study, we review the synthesis of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) and their prospective uses as antioxidants, antimicrobials, and anticancer agents in the pharmaceutical sector. Copper nanoparticles could be created through a variety of methods, including chemical reduction, green synthesis, physical methods, electrochemical deposition, and the microemulsion method. These methods make it possible to precisely create nanoparticles with the necessary shapes, sizes, and surface properties, which in turn affect how well they perform biologically. CuNPs have strong antioxidant properties because they can scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevent oxidative damage. In addition to their antioxidant properties, CuNPs show antibacterial activity against a number of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The potential of CuNPs as an anticancer agent has also been extensively investigated. These nanoparticles have toxic effects on a variety of cancer cell lines by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, and preventing tumour angiogenesis. Because of their specific toxicity towards cancer cells while protecting normal cells, they provide the fascinating potential for tailored therapy to overcome multidrug resistance. CuNPs have also been studied in relation to their usage in medications. They may be utilised to improve drug delivery systems, wound healing, diagnostic imaging, immunotherapy, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They can also be used to improve pharmaceutical stability, bioavailability, and provide controlled release. More research is needed to ensure their safety, enhance their synthesis processes, and explore their full potential in therapeutic situations

Copper and Copper-Based Nanoparticles in Medicine—Perspectives and Challenges

“…Copper and copper oxide nanoparticles have drawn much interest in the biomedical fields, offering diverse benefits, including drug stability, proper biodistribution, improved therapeutic index, and active agent delivery to the specific site (active or passive targeting) [ 35 , 38 , 39 , 40 , 41 ]. For instance, copper nanoparticles can be utilised as anticancer therapeutics or effective drug nanocarriers due to their large specific surface area that facilitates conjugation with various biomolecules.…”