Nanobiotechnological approaches in anticoagulant therapy: The role of bioengineered silver and gold nanomaterials

Nanotechnology is a novel area that has exhibited various remarkable applications, mostly in medicine and industry, due to the unique properties coming with the nanoscale size. One of the notable medical uses of nanomaterials (NMs) that attracted enormous attention recently is their significant anticoagulant activity, pre -venting or reducing coagulation of blood, decreasing the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other serious con-ditions. Despite successful in vitro experiments, in vivo analyses are yet to be confirmed and further research is required to fully prove the safety and efficacy of nanoparticles (NPs) and to introduce them as valid alternatives to conventional ineffective anticoagulants with various shortcomings and side-effects. NMs can be synthesized through two main routes, i.e., the bottom-up route as a more preferable method, and the top-down route. In numerous studies, biological fabrication of NPs, especially metal NPs, is highly suggested given its eco-friendly approach, in which different resources can be employed such as plants, fungi, bacteria, and algae. This review discusses the green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as two of the most useful metal NPs, and also their alloys in different studies focussing on their anti-coagulant potential. Challenges and alternative approaches to the use of these NPs as anticoagulants have also been highlighted.

Automated summary

Nanotechnology has shown remarkable applications in medicine and industry due to its unique properties at the nanoscale. One notable medical use of nanomaterials is their anticoagulant activity, which can prevent blood coagulation and reduce the risk of serious conditions such as strokes and heart attacks. Further research is needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of nanoparticles and to explore their potential as alternatives to conventional anticoagulants. Green synthesis of metal nanoparticles, especially silver and gold nanoparticles, using biological methods is highly recommended. Challenges and alternative approaches for the use of these nanoparticles as anticoagulants have also been discussed.