Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of the Anticancer Activity of Artemether-Loaded Nano-Niosomes Against Breast Cancer Publisher Pubmed



Mirzaeiparsa MJ^{1, 2} ; Najafabadi MRH³ ; Haeri A⁴ ; Zahmatkeshan M^{5, 6} ; Ebrahimi SA⁷ ; Pazokitoroudi H⁸ ; Adel M^{9, 10}
Source: Breast Cancer Published:2020

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to develop nonionic surfactant vesicles (niosomes) as a promising nanocarrier to enhance the anticancer activity of artemether. Methods: The niosomes were prepared by thin-film hydration method containing a mixture of Span, Tween and cholesterol (Chol) in different molar ratios. All formulations were characterized in terms of size, entrapment efficiency (%EE), release profile and morphology. The optimized niosomal formulation (F7), artemether and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) were intratumorally administrated to mice as the nano-niosome group, the free drug group and the control group, respectively (n = 4 per group). Tumor volume was measured during the 12-day experiment, then mice were sacrificed to evaluate the necrosis, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation of tumor tissues by H&E, CD34 and Ki-67 immunostaining, respectively. Results: Both artemether and nano-niosome groups could decrease angiogenesis and proliferation of tumor cells. However, in nano-niosome group superior tumor necrosis and smaller tumor volume were observed compared to both artemether and control groups. Conclusions: The niosomal formulation could be a promising carrier for breast cancer treatment. © 2019, The Japanese Breast Cancer Society.