Tailoring of topically applied curcumin loaded pro-novasomes for skin cancer treatment: In-vitro characterization, statistical optimization and histopathological assessment of subcutaneous Ehrlich carcinoma mice model

• Published in: Journal of drug delivery science and technology 2023-10, Vol.88, p.104957, Article 104957
• Main Authors: El Taweel, Mai M., Tawfik, Mai Ahmed, Soliman, Khadra, Khattab, Marwa S., Farag, Michael M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Curcumin; Histopathological assessment; Lyophilization; Pro-novasomes; Subcutaneous Ehrlich carcinoma; Topical
• ISSN: 1773-2247
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2023.104957

Our investigation is regarding the preparation and characterization of Curcumin-loaded novasomes (CLN) using thin film hydration technique. Curcumin is spotlighted for cancer combat but its sparse aqueous solubility and low bioavailability limit its use. A D-optimal design was employed for the optimization of formulation variables namely A: free fatty acid to surfactant ratio (FFA: SAA), B: type of FFA and C: type of SAA. The optimized CLN showed high entrapment (93.1% ± 0.57%), small particle size (560.5 ± 12.44 nm) with good homogeneity (0.37 ± 0.006), high zeta potential (−34.9 ± 1.91 mV) and controlled in-vitro release (Q2hr = 19.1% ± 2.12%, Q8hr = 69.8% ± 1.91%). The optimized CLN were artistically twisted into Curcumin-loaded pro-novasomes (CLP) lyophilized gel to impart increased stability. A histopathological comparative evaluation of topically applied CLP lyophilized gel versus CLN systemic treatment showed better apoptosis with similar reduction of tumour area (0.51 ± 0.29 cm2 vs 0.09 ± 0.08 cm2) and Ki-67 expression (3.55% ± 0.82% vs 3.60% ± 0.37%) respectively. Conclusively, topically applied CLP lyophilized gel might provide a modulated non-invasive approach for the localized delivery of antitumorigenic agents with possible dose reduction, alleviated side effects and more compliance. [Display omitted]