Signalling and molecular pathways, overexpressed receptors of colorectal cancer and effective therapeutic targeting using biogenic silver nanoparticles

•Discussed CRC classification based on consensus molecular subtype and heterogenicity of human CRC cell lines.•Discussed the nexus between gastrointestinal microbiota and colorectal carcinogenesis.•Discussed insights of signalling molecular pathways and overexpressed receptors at various stages of CRC.•Discussed design of ligands-functionalised silver nanoparticles for effective therapeutic targeting in CRC. Increasing morbidity and mortality in CRC is a potential threat to human health. The major challenges for better treatment outcomes are the heterogeneity of CRC cases, complicated molecular pathway cross-talks, the influence of gut dysbiosis in CRC, and the lack of multimodal target-specific drug delivery. The overexpression of many receptors in CRC cells may pave the path for targeting them with multiple ligands. The design of a more target-specific drug-delivery device with multiple ligand-functionalized, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles is highly promising and may also deliver other approved chemotherapeutic agents. This review presents the various aspects of colorectal cancer and over-expressed receptors that can be targeted with appropriate ligands to enhance the specific drug delivery potency of green synthesised silver nanoparticles. This review aims to broaden further research into this multi-ligand functionalised, safer and effective silver nano drug delivery system.