Poly(D,L-lactic acid)-glycerol-based nanoparticles for curcumin delivery

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

• Curcumin (CUR) possesses potent anticancer properties but suffers from poor bioavailability and rapid clearance.
• Developing effective delivery systems is crucial to harness CUR's therapeutic potential for cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and characterize Poly(D,L-lactic acid)-glycerol (PDLLA-G)-based nanoparticles (NPs) for intravenous delivery of curcumin (CUR).
• To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo performance of CUR-loaded PDLLA-G NPs for cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Nanoparticles were prepared using an emulsification-solvent evaporation method.
• Physicochemical properties, stability, drug release kinetics, cytotoxicity, in vitro anti-tumor efficacy, and pharmacokinetics were assessed.

Main Results:

• PDLLA-G NPs demonstrated a mean diameter of ~200 nm with efficient CUR encapsulation and good stability in various media.
• Sustained CUR release was observed, with higher release rates at acidic pH (5.5) compared to physiological pH (7.4).
• CUR-loaded NPs showed comparable in vitro anti-tumor efficacy to CUR solution and reduced in vivo clearance in rats, indicating prolonged circulation.

Conclusions:

• PDLLA-G NPs provide an efficient nano-sized injectable formulation for CUR delivery.
• Encapsulation of CUR in PDLLA-G NPs enhances its anticancer activity and prolongs its circulation time, suggesting improved therapeutic outcomes.