Structurally engineered silver-albumin nanocomposites functionalized with alpha-terpinyl acetate for enhanced biocompatibility and anticancer activity

The rational design of biofunctional nanocomposites through structural and interfacial engineering is central to advancing next-generation biomaterials. In this study, we developed a multifunctional silver-based nanocomposite with dual-level modification; albumin (Alb) is used as a biopolymeric stabilizer, while Elettaria cardamomum extract, rich in alpha-terpinyl acetate (aTA), served as a surface-functionalizing agent. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) confirmed aTA as the predominant phytoconstituent (97.7% match). Dynamic light scattering revealed progressive size increases from 67.17 nm (AgNPs) to 145.73 nm (Alb-AgNPs) and 365.7 nm (Alb-AgNPs-aTA), indicating successful stepwise functionalization. Structural transformations were supported by UV–Vis spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which revealed changes in surface plasmon resonance and crystalline phases. Thermal analysis (DSC and TGA) demonstrated improved thermal stability, with a pronounced DTG peak at 333.2°C. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested strong Alb–aTA interactions that enhance nanocomposite stability. In vitro assays on HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells showed improved biocompatibility and anticancer efficacy for Alb-AgNPs-aTA (IC ₅₀ = 24 µg/mL). This study presents a thermally stable, structurally engineered nanocomposite with demonstrated bioactivity and potential applicability in drug delivery and cancer therapy, contributing to the broader understanding of how nanoscale modifications influence biological performance.