Bisdemethoxycurcumin loaded polymeric mixed micelles as potential anti-cancer remedy: Preparation, optimization and cytotoxic evaluation in a HepG-2 cell model

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to prepare and optimize Pluronic® mixed micelles as nanocarriers for a natural curcumin derivative viz. bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) that can be used in cancer treatment. Different formulations were prepared according to a full-factorial statistical design. Hence, four mathematical models were generated for the responses; particle size, polydispersity index, zeta-potential and entrapment efficiency percentage. The ratio 20%:80% (F68:F127) w:w and utilizing acetone solely in micellar preparation using thin-film hydration scored optimum results regarding the aforementioned responses. In evaluating the cytotoxic effect of these newly prepared BDMC systems on HepG-2 model cancer cells, an IC50 of 0.74 ìg/ml was obtained which propose polymeric mixed micelles as successful anti-cancer nanocarrier systems.