Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a metal nano-therapy: possible mechanisms of antiviral action against COVID-19

Abstract

COVID-19 is an extremely infectious and ubiquitous disease that has put a tremendous burden on the world's healthcare system. Antimicrobial, anticancer, and antiviral properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are well recognized. AgNPs have been discovered to be a possible antiviral drug that works against a variety of viruses, including COVID-19. AgNPs can produce free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause apoptosis and hence prevent viral infection. Silver nanoparticles were stabilized by bioactive molecules of plants extracts and microbes. Thus in the current review, we summarized different green approaches for synthesizing of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs' shape and size are significant in biomedical applications since changes might lead to different biological interactions and activities. By highlighting the current position of AgNPs in the fight against microorganisms, cancer cell lines and viruses, we propose that they can be used to effectively control the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Graphical Abstract

HIGHLIGHTS

• Literature survey focused on different application of nanomaterial

• Literature survey focused on green methods employed for preparation of AgNPs

• Literature survey focused on biomedical application of AgNPs

• Developing of approaches using AgNPs to terminate the pandemic of COVID-19

• Limitation of biomedical applications of AgNPs

Keywords:

• Silver nanoparticles
• nano-therapy
• bioactive molecules
• free radicals
• COVID-19

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.