Chitosan-Folic Acid-Coated Quercetin-Loaded PLGA Nanoparticles for Hepatic Carcinoma Treatment

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanomedicine
• Oncology

Background:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
• Conventional HCC treatments like ablation, surgery, and embolization have limitations.
• Nanomedicines offer advantages in stability, drug loading, and controlled release for cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop quercetin-loaded polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles coated with folic acid-chitosan (QPCF-NPs).
• To enhance drug delivery and targetability of quercetin for HCC treatment.
• To evaluate the efficacy of QPCF-NPs in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• QPCF-NPs were synthesized using solvent evaporation and characterized by FTIR, SEM, TEM, and XRD.
• In vitro studies included drug release rate and cytotoxicity assays on the HEPG2 cell line.
• In vivo studies involved subcutaneous administration in HCC models, assessing histopathology, biochemical parameters, and ELISA for interleukin and caspase-3.

Main Results:

• Characterization confirmed spherical QPCF-NPs with an average size of 200-290 nm.
• Sustained drug release was observed from QPCF-NPs compared to free quercetin.
• QPCF-NPs demonstrated significant cytotoxicity against HEPG2 cells and improved biochemical/oxidative stress regulation in vivo.

Conclusions:

• QPCF-NPs exhibit enhanced drug targetability and potency for HCC treatment.
• The developed nanomedicine represents a promising strategy for improving HCC therapy.
• Further research into QPCF-NPs could lead to more effective hepatocellular carcinoma interventions.