Biogenic synthesis, characterization of gold nanoparticles using Lonicera japonica and their anticancer activity on HeLa cells

Metal nanoparticles synthesis using plant extract is one of the most attractive and ecofriendly methods. In the present report, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized using Lonicera japonica flower-extract for in vitro anticancer activity against cervical cancer. The formation of AuNPs were indicated by color changes (light-yellow to ruby-red), and confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy (absorbance similar to 530-580 nm). The synthesized AuNPs size about 10-40 nm with mostly spherical and few triangular, and hexagonal shapes. Elemental composition and crystalline nature were confirmed by EDX and XRD, respectively. FTIR studies revealed the presence of plant materials on the surface of AuNPs, which could be responsible for formation of AuNPs. GC-MS analysis was utilized to determine the phytochemical composition of L. japonica flowers. The synthesized AuNPs were checked for the cytotoxic effect on normal embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) and cervix cancer (HeLa) cells. In conclusion, the normal cells were remaining unharmed while cancer cells growth inhibition was observed dose dependent. From immunofluorescent staining studies of HeLa cells, condensation and fragmentation of nuclear material were observed that indicates apoptotic cell death. These results clearly suggested that eco-friendly synthesis of AuNPs using flower-extract of L. japonica could be used to treat cervical cancer cells.