Physicochemical properties, selective cytotoxicity, and hemocompatibility of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized using Schizophyllum commune extract

Abstract

The integration of biologically derived surface functionalities into metallic nanomaterials offers a promising approach for tailoring nanoparticle performance. In this study, structure–property-bioactivity relationships of biofunctionalized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized using Schizophyllum commune extract were investigated. The fungal extract contained abundant phenolics, triterpenoids, proteins, and carbohydrates that mediated nanoparticle formation and surface functionalization. The resulting AgNPs exhibited a face-centered cubic crystalline structure, an average hydrodynamic size of approximately 50 nm, a zeta potential of − 20.2 mV, and stable colloidal behavior. FTIR analysis revealed the persistence of hydroxyl, amide, and carbohydrate-associated functional groups on the nanoparticle surface, supporting the presence of a fungal-derived biomolecular surface layer rather than confirming the formation of a complete biomolecular corona. These surface characteristics were closely associated with enhanced biological performance, including strong antioxidant activity and selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells. The AgNPs demonstrated potent anticancer activity with IC 50 values of 5.07, 27.93, and 29.07 µg/mL against HepG2, SW480, and NCI-N87 cells, respectively, corresponding to selectivity index (SI) values of 44.18, 8.02, and 7.71. Furthermore, hemolytic activity remained below 5%, indicating acceptable hemocompatibility. Overall, the findings establish a direct relationship between fungal-derived surface chemistry, nanoparticle physicochemical properties, and biological performance, highlighting the potential of S. commune -mediated biofunctionalized AgNPs as advanced nanotherapeutic materials with promising anticancer and biocompatible characteristics.