Preparation, characterization and in vitro evaluation of resveratrol-loaded nanospheres potentially useful for human breast carcinoma

Abstract

The aim of the present work was the preparation and characterization of nanospheres based on antioxidants resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate useful for site-specific release of resveratrol to breast cancer cells. Nanospheres were prepared via microemulsion technique and were characterized by light scattering, FT-IR spectrophotometry and Electronic Scanning Microscopy. Spherical particles with a diameter of about ~400 nm have been obtained. Resveratrol was then 100% loaded into nanoparticles and its release profile was evaluated by in vitro studies at pH 7.4, in order to simulate the physiological environment, and at pH 6.2 to simulate the tumor environment. Experimental data displayed a slow and continous release of resveratrol from nanoparticles at both pHs. Nanospheres also showed a strong antioxidant activity against lipid peroxidation induced in rat liver microsomal membranes. Finally, the effects of increasing doses of the resveratrol-epigallocatechin gallate based nanospheres on the proliferation and viability of MDA-MB 231 human breast carcinoma cells were evaluated. The data showed a significant reduction of cell survival. In particular, it has been observed that resveratrol loaded microparticles acted more effectively than the empty ones. All the obtained results suggest that these platforms, thanks to their release profile, biocompatibility, antioxidant and antitumor activity, could be a suitable approach for breast cancer treatment and prevention.