Optimization and characterization of pH-responsive curcumin loaded niosomes for targeted drug delivery in breast cancer

Abstract

The current NDDS technique is widely used in the treatment of cancer because medications can be delivered to the target site more effectively and efficiently, resulting in fewer negative side effects and more beneficial therapeutic outcomes. The purpose of this study was to develop a pH-responsive curcumin-loaded niosomes for the treatment of human breast cancer cells. Thin film hydration was employed in the preparation of niosomes. Various ratios of drug, surfactant and cholesterol compositions were tried for better entrapment efficiency using pH sensitive polymers like Eudragit, Chitosan etc. Particle size of and entrapment efficiency of niosomes was found to be 189 nm and 89% respectively. Zeta potential of niosomes was found to be -34.4mV.  In-vitro drug release study was also carried out which confirmed the pH-dependent release behaviour, under acidic conditions (pH = 5.4), to achieve efficient drug delivery at site of action without damaging normal cells.