Synthesis, Characterization, and Optimization of Curcumin-Loaded Block Copolymer Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications Publisher



M Kamankesh MOJTABA ; Hs Hoseini Hosna SADAT ; M Peyman MARZIEH ; M Vaziri MOHAMMAD ; Z Mohammadpour ZAHRA
Source: Chemical Engineering Journal Published:2025

Abstract

The development of novel antibacterial agents is crucial in addressing the global issue of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study focuses on the synthesis of an amphiphilic block copolymer, poly[methyl methacrylate-b-N-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]methacrylamide], which was formulated into nanoparticles featuring a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic corona with exposed amine functional groups. Using a Box-Behnken experimental design, the polymer/drug ratio was identified as the most influential factor affecting particle size and loading content. The optimized nanoparticles, approximately 100 nm in size, successfully encapsulated curcumin with a loading content of 44%. The high positive zeta potential of +61.1 mV imparted intrinsic antibacterial properties to the nanoparticles. When combined with curcumin, these nanoparticles demonstrated antibacterial efficacy against three bacterial strains: E. coli and P. aeruginosa (Gram-negative) and S. aureus (Gram-positive). Antibacterial property was assessed using colony count assay, agar well diffusion assay, flow cytometry analysis, zeta potential analysis, and SEM. The nanoformulation showed minimal cytotoxicity, with approximately 80% cell viability in MDA-MB-231 cells at concentrations up to 400 ppm, and hemolysis below 25% at the highest concentration tested (475 ppm). Cellular uptake experiments confirmed the efficient internalization of the nanoformulation by cells, highlighting its potential as an effective drug delivery system. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.