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Updated: Apr 23, 2026

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles SLNs for Intracellular Targeting Applications
Published on: November 17, 2015
Sesamol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for treatment of skin cancer
T Geetha1, Meenakshi Kapila, Om Prakash
1University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University , Chandigarh, Punjab , India and.
Abstract:
Abstract Role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in skin carcinogenesis is well documented. Natural molecules, like sesamol, with marked antioxidant potential can be useful in combating skin cancers. In vitro antiproliferative (using MTT assay) and DNA fragmentation studies in HL 60 cell lines, confirmed the apoptotic nature of sesamol. However, it showed a significant flux across the mice skin upon topical application, such that its local availability in skin is limited. Former is attributed mainly to its properties like small size, low molecular weight (138.28), and a sufficient lipid and water solubility (log P 1.29; solubility 38.8 mg/ml). To achieve its maximum epicutaneous delivery, packaging it into a suitable carrier system is thus indicated. Sesamol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (S-SLN) were thus prepared with particle size of 127.9 nm (PI: 0.256) and entrapment efficiency of 88.21%. Topical application of S-SLN in a cream base indicated significant retention in the skin with minimal flux across skin as confirmed by the in-vivo skin retention and ex-vivo skin permeation studies. In vivo anticancer studies performed on TPA-induced and benzo(a)pyrene initiated tumour production (ROS mediated) in mouse epidermis showed the normalization (in histology studies) of skin cancers post their induction, upon treatment with S-SLN.
Insights
Sesamol, an antioxidant, combats skin cancer by inducing apoptosis. Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) enhance its skin retention, improving topical delivery and reducing skin cancer progression in mice.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a significant role in skin carcinogenesis.
- Natural antioxidants like sesamol show potential for combating skin cancers.
- Sesamol's limited skin availability due to its properties necessitates improved delivery systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate sesamol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (S-SLN) for enhanced topical delivery.
- To assess the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of S-SLN in combating skin cancer.
Main Methods:
- Sesamol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (S-SLN) were prepared and characterized for particle size and entrapment efficiency.
- In vitro antiproliferative and DNA fragmentation studies were conducted on HL 60 cell lines.
- In vivo skin retention and permeation studies were performed on mice.
- Anticancer efficacy was evaluated on TPA-induced and benzo(a)pyrene initiated skin tumors in mice.
Main Results:
- S-SLN exhibited a particle size of 127.9 nm and an entrapment efficiency of 88.21%.
- Sesamol demonstrated in vitro apoptotic effects on HL 60 cells.
- S-SLN showed significantly enhanced skin retention and reduced skin permeation compared to free sesamol.
- In vivo studies indicated normalization of skin cancer histology after S-SLN treatment.
Conclusions:
- Sesamol possesses in vitro anticancer properties and induces apoptosis.
- Solid lipid nanoparticles effectively enhance sesamol's topical delivery and skin retention.
- S-SLN demonstrate significant in vivo efficacy in normalizing skin cancer in mice, offering a promising approach for skin cancer treatment.
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