Comparison of nanovesicles derived from Panax notoginseng at different size: physical properties, composition, and bioactivity

Xiaohang Chen ^1,2, Liyu Huang ^1,3, Mengyuan Zhang ⁴

⁰Fujian Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.

Frontiers in Pharmacology +

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August 6, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Medium-sized Panax notoginseng-derived nanovesicles (PnNVs) show the greatest potential for inhibiting squamous cell carcinoma. Tuber size significantly impacts PnNV properties and anti-cancer effectiveness, crucial for reproducible research.

Area Of Science

Biotechnology
Nanomedicine
Cancer Research

Background

Plant-derived nanovesicles are emerging as promising anti-cancer agents.
Panax notoginseng-derived nanovesicles (PnNVs) show potential for tumor treatment.
The influence of plant source material characteristics on nanovesicle bioactivity requires further investigation.

Purpose Of The Study

To investigate the anti-cancer effects of Panax notoginseng-derived nanovesicles (PnNVs) on squamous cell carcinoma.
To explore the relationship between Panax notoginseng tuber size and PnNV physical properties, composition, and anti-cancer bioactivity.

Main Methods

Isolation and characterization of PnNVs from small, medium, and large Panax notoginseng tubers.
Assessment of cellular uptake efficiency using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry.
Evaluation of anti-cancer activity via plate cloning, CCK8 assay, scratch healing assay, and metabolomics.

Main Results

Small PnNVs (s_PnNVs) had high cellular uptake but lower efficacy; medium PnNVs (m_PnNVs) were smallest with lowest uptake but most potent anti-cancer activity.
Large PnNVs (l_PnNVs) exhibited the highest protein content.
Metabolomics revealed increased anti-tumor metabolites in m_PnNVs.

Conclusions

Panax notoginseng tuber size significantly influences PnNV properties and anti-cancer bioactivity.
Medium-sized PnNVs demonstrate superior efficacy in inhibiting squamous cell carcinoma proliferation and migration.
Understanding these size-dependent variations is critical for optimizing nanovesicle-based cancer therapies and ensuring experimental reproducibility.

Keywords:

Panax notoginseng bioactivity composition plant derived nanovesicles squamous cell carcinoma tuber size