Biosynthesized nanoparticles (gold, silver and platinum): Therapeutic role in angiogenesis

Abstract

Abstract Biosynthesis or green synthesis of nanoparticles is the new age technology being employed for the production of nanoparticles especially metal nanoparticles and its applications in biomedical engineering. Among the various metal nanoparticles generated biosynthesis of noble metal nanoparticles are explored to a wider extent in the field of biomedical applications. The evaluation of plants and micro-organisms (such as bacteria, algae, fungi and viruses) as potential reducing agents have further contributed to the biosynthesis of noble metal nanoparticles in a simple, economic and non-toxic manner in comparison to its chemical and physical counterparts. Biosynthesized noble metal nanoparticles because of their varying functional properties are utilized for the therapeutic applications of several diseases such as anti-cancer, anti-microbial, angiogenesis related diseases, etc. Currently, angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels from preexisting blood vessels) is being studied in many research laboratories worldwide. Recent reports suggest that, the biosynthesized noble metal nanoparticles especially gold, silver and platinum shows efficient pro- and anti-angiogenic activities that could be utilized for the treatment of cancers, cardio vascular related diseases, ischemic diseases, wound healing, etc. The exploration of biosynthesized nanoparticles could help to overcome the problems arising in treating the angiogenic related diseases. The present book chapter has shed light on the various biosynthesis procedures of the nanoparticles along with their therapeutic role in angiogenesis and anti-angiogenesis. Finally, the chapter concludes with the section of future perspectives, challenges and highlighting the potentials of biosynthesized nanomaterials as the coming age therapeutic medicine.