Preparation, characterization, and anticancer effect of Capsaicin-functionalized selenium nanoparticles.

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are recognized for their anticancer potential due to bioavailability and low toxicity.
• Instability of SeNPs has limited their clinical application in cancer therapy.
• Capsaicin (Cap), a natural compound, exhibits anticancer properties but requires formulation enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize Cap-decorated SeNPs (Cap@SeNPs) for improved anticancer efficacy.
• To investigate the antiproliferative effects of Cap@SeNPs on HepG2 liver cancer cells.
• To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of Cap@SeNPs-induced cell death.

Main Methods:

• Cap@SeNPs were synthesized via a redox method and characterized using UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy.
• Antiproliferative activity was assessed using the MTT assay on HepG2 cells.
• Mechanistic studies involved cell cycle analysis, ROS level measurement, mitochondrial membrane potential assessment, and caspase activity assays.

Main Results:

• Stable, well-dispersed Cap@SeNPs were successfully synthesized with an optimal sodium selenite to Cap mass ratio of 1:2.
• Cap@SeNPs demonstrated significantly enhanced antiproliferative effects on HepG2 cells compared to unmodified SeNPs.
• Cap@SeNPs induced HepG2 cell apoptosis by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing nuclear condensation, and altering mitochondrial membrane potential, leading to caspase activation.

Conclusions:

• The decoration of SeNPs with Capsaicin offers an effective strategy to overcome SeNP instability and enhance anticancer activity.
• Cap@SeNPs represent a promising nanomedicine approach for liver cancer treatment.
• This study highlights the potential of Cap@SeNPs as a novel therapeutic agent for cancer therapy.