Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a metal nano-therapy: possible mechanisms of antiviral action against COVID-19
Najlaa S. Al‐Radadi, Ahmed M. Abu‐Dief
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.