Genotoxicity and Carcinogenicity of Medicinal Herbs and Their Nanoparticles

Abstract

Medicinal plants (MPs) account for 70–80% of use in primary care around the world, and this percentage indicates that the number of MP users is high; thus, it is necessary to focus studies on medicinal herbs to ensure their proper use. In addition, MPs have strong genotoxic effects, as some types of MPs can cause DNA damage. Any substance that raises the risk of cancer or a tumor in an organism is called a carcinogen. There are many genotoxic and carcinogenic substances in the environment that can directly or indirectly affect genetic material. There are also nanoparticles (NPs) derived from MPs. Carbon-based NPs contain many nanoscale materials, such as fullerenes and carbon nanotubes, as well as metals such as gold (Au), silver (Ag), and aluminum (Al). Unfortunately, few studies are concerned with the carcinogenicity of NPs from MPs, whereas many researchers are interested in genotoxic assessment. For this reason, there is an urgent need for more studies into the safety of MPs and NPs. Therefore, this study reviewed the genotoxicity and carcinogenicity of MPs and their derived NPs. We also emphasized the need for strict regulation and monitoring of MP usage.

Application of Metal Nanoparticles for Production of Self-Sterilizing Coatings

“…Recently, due to the suspicion of some metal nanoparticles as carcinogens, many studies on non-toxicity and biocompatibility with the human body have been generated [266]. Tan et al [267] investigated a polysaccharide coating based on metallic nanoparticles that was used as a packaging material to encapsulate curcumin.…”