| dc.description.abstract | Background:
Cancer, marked by uncontrolled cell growth, is a global cause of morbidity and mortality.
Even there are several available regimens for cancer treatment according to the cancer type and its
stage but untolerable side effects as well as the lack of efficacy remains important issues for
oncologists. In this context, propolis, known for its anticancer activity, presents an innovative
approach, particularly when combined with nanotechnology. The combination of propolis and
nanotechnology holds promise in cancer treatment, harnessing propolis's therapeutic potential and
nanosystems' targeted delivery for improved efficacy and reduced side effects. The study aims to
develop and optimize a nanoformulation containing propolis for anticancer activity.
Method:
Propolis extract-loaded niosomes (PLNs) were prepared by Ethanol injection method. The
development and optimization of a nanoformulation containing propolis focusing on surfactant
selection, Surfactant-to-Cholesterol ratio optimization by using Response Surface Methodology
(RSM). Particle size, Polydispersity Index (PDI), Zeta potential and Stability test were used to
investigate the optimum PLNs formulation. The determination of phenolic content in both propolis
and Propolis extract-loaded niosomes, utilizing Folin−Ciocalteu methods and UV-Vis
spectrophotometry were applied. Finally, the anticancer potential of the synthesized PLNs on L929
mouse fibroblast and MCF7 breast cancer cell lines was evaluated by MTT assay.
Result:
The optimization of Propolis extract-loaded niosomes (PLNs) formulation commenced with the
selection of Tween 80 as the principal component during this assay. Subsequently, a formulation
comprising 0.1g Propolis extract with 0.250 Cholesterol : 1 Tween 80 was identified, exhibiting a
particle size of 193.5 ± 0.781 nm, a PDI of 0.181 ± 0.004, and a zeta potential of -15.6 mV. This
formulation, recognized for its optimal characteristics, was selected for evaluation in the anticancer
efficacy. The total phenolic content in the Propolis samples was determined to be 21.83 ± 0.13
(mg GAE/g) equivalent to 2.183 (% w/w), with an entrapment efficiency of 57.82% ± 0.0334%.
Subsequently, the synthesized PLNs was assessed through MTT assay, significantly inhibited cell
viability, revealing substantial activity against MCF-7 Breast cancer cells, with an IC50 value of
89.32 µg/ml. Based on the stability results, it was determined that refrigeration at +4°C enhances
the stability of Propolis extract-loaded niosomes (PLNs).
Keywords: cancer, propolis, niosomes, ethanol injection method, Response Surface Methodology
(RSM). | en_US |
