Physicochemical Characterization, Development and Evaluation of Curcumin-Loaded Nanoparticles for Antiproliferative, Activity against Pancreatic Cancer (PANC-1 ) Cells

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive malignancies, associated with poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Curcumin, a bioactive polyphenolic compound from Curcuma longa, exhibits strong anticancer properties but is hindered by poor solubility and low bioavailability. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems can potentially overcome these challenges and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Methods: Curcumin-loaded nanoparticles were prepared using the nanoprecipitation method and optimized through a Box–Behnken design. The formulations were characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, and thermal behavior. In vitro drug release was assessed using the dialysis bag method. Antiproliferative activity against PANC-1 cells was evaluated through MTT assay, Annexin V–FITC/PI apoptosis assay, and cell cycle analysis. Stability studies were conducted on lyophilized nanoparticles under refrigerated storage for three months.

Results: The optimized formulation displayed a mean particle size of 142.3 ± 5.6 nm, PDI of 0.212 ± 0.02, zeta potential of –24.7 ± 2.1 mV, and encapsulation efficiency of 89.2 ± 3.5%. Drug release was sustained up to 72 h with 86.2% cumulative release. Compared with free curcumin, nanoparticles demonstrated a 3.5-fold lower IC₅₀, significantly enhanced apoptosis, and G2/M phase arrest.

Conclusion: Curcumin-loaded nanoparticles improved solubility, stability, and antiproliferative activity against PANC-1 cells, highlighting their potential as an effective therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.