Emerging Selenium Nanoparticles to Combat Cancer: a Systematic Review

Cancer remains a major global health problem with significant economic burden on the society. Meanwhile, nanotechnology has attracted significant attention worldwide to combat cancer as a novel strategy. The objective of the present study was to systematically review the anticancer activity of biologically synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) through previous laboratory studies. The published articles were collected through online databases including Cochrane, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Science Direct, and ProQuest. Most of the studies prepared SeNPs using microbial approach. Besides, spherical shaped was the predominant morphology of SeNPs among all studies. In general, biogenic SeNPs represented more cytotoxicity on cancer cells compared to normal cells. This study represented initial evidence for anticancer potential of biogenic SeNPs and provided valuable information in this regard. We also discussed the proposed anticancer mechanisms of SeNPs. These nanomaterials may be developed as next generation anticancer drugs resulting in a revolution in cancer therapeutics. Graphic