Development and Characterization of Curcumin Loaded PEGylated Niosomal Nanoparticles: Potential Anti-Cancer Effect on Breast Cancer Cells through RFC Gene Expression.

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women. Recent studies emphasize the significant role of folate metabolic pathways in cancer progression. The Reduced Folate Carrier (RFC), a folate transporter in cell membranes, plays an essential role in transporting folate receptor-dependent drugs. Curcumin, a bioactive compound with anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects, is hindered by low stability and a short half-life. Niosomes are versatile nanoparticles that can deliver both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the anticancer effects of curcumin-loaded niosomal nanoparticles, focusing on their impact on RFC, BAX, and BCL-2 gene expression in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells.

METHODS

Curcumin-loaded noisomal nanoparticles were synthesized by the thin-film hydration method. Then, the morphology, size, and physico-chemical nanoparticles were determined by FE-SEM, DLS, and FT-IR methods, respectively. The MTT results determined the cytotoxicity of free and nano-formulated curcumin; also, the gene expression of RFC, BCL-2, and BAX was evaluated using the Real-Time PCR method. Furthermore, apoptosis and cell cycle analysis were investigated by Flow cytometry.

Results

The results of the physicochemical characteristics of the nanoparticles showed that curcumin was appropriately loaded in niosomal NPs. The MTT results showed that curcumin loaded in niosomal NPs has a higher anti-proliferative effect than free curcumin. Real-time PCR results showed increased RFC and BAX gene expression and decreased BCL-2 gene expression; this change was more significant in the treatment with nano-formulated curcumin. The apoptosis and cell cycle analysis also confirmed that free and nano-formulated curcumin induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest.

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggested that curcumin loaded in niosomal nanoparticles effectively improves the anticancer effect and could be a capable approach for treating breast cancer.