Background and Aim: Selenium nanoparticles have attracted significant attention in cancer therapy due to their anticancer properties and ability to induce oxidative stress in tumor cells. However, limited studies have investigated the effects of green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles on the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in gastric cancer cells. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles on ROS levels and the viability of gastric cancer (AGS) cells. Methods: This experimental laboratory study was conducted in accordance with ethical principles. Selenium nanoparticles were synthesized using an extract of Onopordum acanthium through the reduction of sodium selenite. AGS cells were cultured under appropriate conditions and treated with various concentrations of selenium nanoparticles (5 to 80 µg/mL) for 24 hours. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay, and ROS levels were measured using the DCFH-DA probe with a fluorometer and DHE staining. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and ANOVA statistical tests.
Results: Selenium nanoparticles dose-dependently decreased cell viability and significantly increased intracellular ROS levels in AGS cells (p<0.001). The estimated IC50 was approximately 40 µg/mL.
Conclusion: The results indicate that green-synthesized selenium nanoparticles, by inducing oxidative stress and reducing cancer cell viability, may serve as an effective and biocompatible option for gastric cancer treatment.