Folate-conjugated PLGA-PEG nanocarriers have emerged as a promising strategy for targeted delivery of anticancer agents such as 9-bromo-noscapine (9-Br-Nos) for targeting of folate receptors, which are overexpressed in breast cancer cells. They were synthesized and characterized for their size, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, and drug release profile. In vitro cytotoxicity studies have revealed an enhancement in anticancer efficacy of nano-formulated drugs compared to free drugs. Enhanced cellular uptake, improved mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were observed in treated cells. Additionally, the spheroid disintegration assay was performed to evaluate the effect of the nano-formulation on the three-dimensional (3D) tumor model. Western blot analysis revealed changes in the expression of apoptosis-related proteins, further supporting the enhanced therapeutic potential of the nanocarrier system. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated improvement in bioavailability and prolonged circulation of the nano-encapsulated drug. This study underscores the potential of nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems in improving the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer agents.
Bhoi et al. (Wed,) studied this question.