Synthesis, applications, toxicity and toxicity mechanisms of silver nanoparticles: A review

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have become one of the most popular objects of study for the past few decades. The ability to design AgNPs through different synthetic methods according to the application area and desired features is their advantage in many applications. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles has become one of the most potential synthesis methods. Because of their strong antibacterial activity, AgNPs have been used in a wide range of applications, such as food packaging and medical products and devices. With the increasing application of AgNPs, it is becoming necessary for a better understanding of the toxicity of AgNPs and their potential mechanism of toxicity. In the review, we first describe the synthetic methods of AgNPs. The application of AgNPs in the field is then briefly described. The toxicity of AgNPs and their potential toxicity mechanisms are discussed.