Biosurfactant stabilized anticancer biomolecule-loaded poly (D,L-lactide) nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Polylactic acid (PLA) nanoparticles (NPs) are investigated for drug delivery applications.
• Curcumin and quercetin are potent antioxidants with limited bioavailability.
• Green synthesis methods using natural extracts are desirable for nanoparticle formulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop PLA NPs using turmeric extract (TE) as a green stabilizer.
• To evaluate the encapsulation and controlled release of curcumin and quercetin from TE-stabilized PLA NPs.
• To assess the cytotoxicity and anticancer activity of these formulated nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• PLA NPs were synthesized using a green route with turmeric extract (TE).
• Curcumin and quercetin were encapsulated into PLA NPs, with formulations characterized for size and encapsulation efficiency (∼95%).
• In vitro release studies and cytotoxicity assays using human leukocytes and A549 cancer cell lines were performed.

Main Results:

• PLA NPs loaded with curcumin (C-En-D, C-En-P) and quercetin (Q-En-D, Q-En-P) were successfully synthesized with sizes ranging from 102±31 nm to 203±77 nm.
• All formulations exhibited high encapsulation efficiency (∼95%) and showed an initial burst release followed by sustained release.
• TE-stabilized PLA NPs (C-En-D and Q-En-D) were non-toxic to normal human leukocytes and demonstrated significant anticancer activity against A549 cells, with Q-En-D showing superior efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Turmeric extract is an effective biostabilizer for creating biocompatible PLA nanoparticles.
• These nanoparticles offer a promising platform for the controlled delivery of curcumin and quercetin.
• The developed green synthesis technology provides a safe and effective approach for anticancer and other biological applications.