Biogenic Synthesis of Ag NPs Adorned Gellan Gum Modified Fe3O4 NPs Towards the Catalytic Reduction of Nitroarenes and the Investigation of Anti-breast Cancer Potential

Abstract

In the realm of nanobiotechnology the bio-inspired and bioengineered nanoparticles have immense impetus in view of their unique and diverse implications. This research describes an eco-friendly method for the in situ synthesis of an Ag NP fabricated over gellan gum functionalized Fe₃O₄ NPs (Fe₃O₄@gellan gum-Ag) and its subsequent catalytic and biological uses. The morphological and physicochemical properties of this material were evaluated applying a variety of instrumental methods, including FT-IR, FE-SEM, TEM, EDS, elemental mapping, XRD, and ICP. The as synthesized Fe₃O₄@gellan gum-Ag NPs was used as a nanocatalyst in the catalytic application to reduce nitrobenzene derivatives. A UV–Vis spectrophotometer was used to track the reduction process. Through eight additional cycles, we assessed the sustainability of this catalyst based on its recyclable qualities. Furthermore, the nanocomposite’s bioapplication for in vitro anticancer research against the breast cell lines MCF-7 and SKBR3 was expanded through the use of the MTT assay. The material caused a dose-dependent reduction in the malignant breast cell line’s cell survival. Regarding the MCF-7 (Michigan Cancer Foundation-7) and SKBR3 (Sloan–Kettering breast cancer) cell lines, the nanocomposite was found to have IC50 values of 41.2 and 39 µg/mL. In the near future, cancer management may appear extremely promising, considering the amazing results the developed nanocomposite demonstrated.