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Nanotechnology is an emerging field in science and technology, which can be applied to synthesize new materials at the nanoscale level. The present investigation aimed at comparing the synthesis, characterization and in vitro anticancer efficacy of synthesized silver and gold nanoparticles using leaves extract of Bauhinia tomentosa Linn. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized using aqueous extract of leaves with solution of silver nitrate (AgNO 3 , 1 mM) and chloroauric acid (HAuCl 4 •3H 2 O, 1 mM), respectively. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using UV-visible spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive analysis of X-rays, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and cyclic voltammetry, which confirmed the reduction of Ag + ions to Ag 0 and Au 3+ ions to Au 0. The in vitro anticancer efficacy of AgNPs, AuNPs and aqueous extract of leaves confirmed by MTT assay exhibited IC 50 concentrations of 28.125, 46.875 and 50 μg ml −1 for lung A-549 cells, 103.125, 34.375 and 53.125 μg ml −1 for HEp-2 cells and 62.5, 23.4 and 13.26 μg ml −1 for MCF-7 cells, respectively. The concentrations indicate that both silver and gold nanoparticles as well as aqueous extract of leaves exhibited high anticancer efficacy.

This study employs a green, eco-friendly and convenient hydrothermal method for the synthesis of stable silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using medically beneficial Azadirachta indica A. Juss leaf extract as reducing as well as capping agent. Careful optimization of hydrothermal conditions leads to the formation of spherical Ag NPs of size 9-15 nm. Thus, synthesized NPs are characterized by spectroscopy and microscopy techniques, revealing the morphology and size the NPs. The chemical composition and functionality of the plant extract and NPs is studied using FTIR and EDS analysis. The photocatalytic activity of Ag NPs is demonstrated by decolourization of Rose Bengal under visible light. Ag NPs also show bactericidal activity against E. coli, K. pneumonia, S. epidermidis and S. pneumoniae.

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