Eco-friendly synthesis and characterization of iron oxide nanoparticles for targeted gastric cancer therapy

This study explores the description and synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Terminalia arjuna (L.) bark extract through green methods. UV-visible absorption spectroscopy revealed a peak at 276 nm, confirming iron oxide nanoparticles formation. FTIR analysis identified various functional groups, indicating complex chemical structures, while XRD analysis revealed the crystalline nature of the nanoparticles, showing peaks at 11.3305° and 45.6412° 2θ, corresponding to different phases or orientations. The average crystalline size was estimated at 25-40 nm, with SEM image confirming spherical morphology and AFM image confirmed the surface appears rougher, with more pronounced peaks and valleys. Biological efficacy was tested on AGS (Adeno carcinoma gastric stomach) cells, showing over 65% inhibition at 15 μg concentrations and the IC50 value was 10.394±0.246 μg. AO/EB dual dye staining indicated apoptosis, and ROS levels, measured using carboxy-H2DCFDA, showed increased oxidation. Quantitative real-time PCR demonstrated significant down regulation of AKT and mTOR proteins, highlighting the nanoparticles' potential to disrupt crucial cancer signaling pathways. These findings suggest the green-synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles have promising therapeutic applications in gastric cancer treatment. KEY WORDS: Gastric cancer, Iron oxide nanoparticles, PCR, AKT and mTOR Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(9), 1765-1778. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i9.9