Capsanthin-Loaded Micelles: Preparation, Characterization and in vitro Evaluation of Cytotoxicity Using MDA-MB-231...

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Biochemistry
• Oncology

Background:

• Breast cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with rising incidence in developing nations.
• Phytochemicals, including carotenoids, demonstrate potential in inhibiting breast cancer growth and inducing apoptosis.
• Enhanced solubility of hydrophobic compounds like capsanthin is crucial for effective drug delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of water-soluble capsanthin-loaded micelles against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.
• To investigate the potential of capsanthin-loaded diosgenin polyethylene glycol succinate 1000 (cap-DPGS-1000) as a novel drug delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Capsanthin was extracted from sweet red pepper (Capsicum annuum) and encapsulated into DPGS-1000 micelles.
• Characterization of capsanthin extract and cap-DPGS-1000 micelles using UV-Vis, HPLC, FTIR, XRD, particle size analysis, and SEM.
• Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT assay on the MDA-MB-231 human triple-negative breast cancer cell line.

Main Results:

• Cap-DPGS-1000 micelles exhibited significantly enhanced water solubility compared to capsanthin extract.
• The IC₅₀ value of cap-DPGS-1000 micelles against MDA-MB-231 cells was 3.10±1.09 μg/mL, substantially lower than the extract (81.1±1.5 μg/mL).
• Encapsulated capsanthin demonstrated sustained release characteristics in simulated intestinal fluid.

Conclusions:

• Water-soluble capsanthin-loaded micelles represent a potent and effective formulation for targeting triple-negative breast cancer.
• This novel micellar system offers improved drug delivery, potentially enhancing localized treatment of residual tumors.
• Capsanthin and its micellar formulation are promising candidates for inducing apoptosis and increasing reactive oxygen species in cancer cells.