Enhancing cubosome functionality by coating with a single layer of poly-ε-lysine

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Cubosomes are versatile nanocarriers derived from lipids like monoolein.
• Surface modification is crucial for enhancing nanoparticle stability and cellular interaction.
• Poly-ε-lysine is a biocompatible polymer with cationic properties suitable for surface functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and characterize poly-ε-lysine coated monoolein cubosomes.
• To evaluate the stability, biocompatibility, and cellular uptake of modified cubosomes.
• To assess the drug release profile and therapeutic efficacy of drug-loaded cubosomes.

Main Methods:

• Preparation and characterization of monoolein cubosomes.
• Surface modification using cationic poly-ε-lysine.
• Stability assessment in serum, cytotoxicity assays, cellular uptake studies (HeLa cells), drug release kinetics, and apoptosis assays.

Main Results:

• Poly-ε-lysine coated cubosomes exhibited excellent stability in serum.
• Modified cubosomes were nontoxic and readily internalized by HeLa cells.
• Drug release rate of Naproxen sodium was retarded, and cubosomes enhanced drug-induced apoptosis in HeLa cells.

Conclusions:

• Surface-functionalized monoolein cubosomes offer a stable and biocompatible platform for drug delivery.
• The poly-ε-lysine coating facilitates bioconjugation and improves therapeutic outcomes.
• These modified cubosomes show promise for enhanced cancer therapy, particularly with Naproxen sodium.