QBD based and Box-Behnken Design based PLGA Nanoparticles for Sustained Release of Curcumin (Cur-PLGA-NS) In A549 Lung Cancer Cells

Abstract

Aim: Design of controlled release Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs), using systematic optimization and control over critical formulation and process parameters is essential. The study aimed at using a QbD approach involving Box-Behnken design to develope PLGA based Polymeric Nanoparticle for controlled release of Curcumin in lung cancer.

Method: The curcumin loaded PLGA nanosphere (Cur-PLGA-NS) was prepared using the bottom-up method with the help of QbD approach using Box-Behnken design. The prepared NS were characterized by size, zeta potential, TEM, entrapment, and drug release. In vitro cytotoxicity and cell uptake study were also performed with A549 lung cancer cells.

Results: The optimized Cur-PLGA-NS with particle size of 143.1±12 nm and homogeneity in terms of PDI were obtained using the design with and no aggregation of particle, as confirmed by TEM analysis. High drug entrapment efficiency (81.26 %) and controlled release approximately 80.26% of the drug was shown within 24 hours. In vitro cytotoxicity assays against A549 lung cancer cells showed a significantly lower IC₅₀ value for the nanoparticles (14.23 µg/mL) compared to curcumin suspension (20.09 µg/mL), indicating higher potency. Additionally, enhanced cellular uptake of Cur-PLGA-NS in A549 cells were observed.

Conclusion: From the study the QbD-optimized Cur-PLGA-NS demonstrated effective formulation characteristics highlighting its potential as a promising nanocarrier for curcumin delivery in lung cancer therapy.