Fucoidan-coated PIBCA nanoparticles containing oncocalyxone A: Activity against metastatic breast cancer cells

Oncocalyxone A (oncoA) is a natural benzoquinone isolated from Cordia oncocalyx, which exhibits many biological activities such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic. However, it presents renal, cardiac, and pulmonary toxicity, which can be a limiting factor. The encapsulation of oncoA in polymeric nanoparticles can enhance its therapeutic effect, while reducing its toxicity. Thus, this study aimed to develop nanoparticles of poly (isobutyl cyanoacrylate) containing oncoA, and to evaluate its activity against metastatic breast cancer cells. The nanoparticles were obtained using the anionic emulsion polymerization technique and characterized by Fourier-transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetry (TG), in addition to studies of long-term stability, including different pH, and blood compatibility. Antiproliferative activity was assessed by MTT and cell migration assays. The nanoparticles were obtained with a particle size of 305 ± 6.49 nm and encapsulation rate of 101.5 ± 1.4%, and were stable at different pH over 7 months. The nanoparticles did not induce hemolysis. The encapsulation of oncoA in fucoidan-coated PIBCA nanoparticles increased its cytotoxicity on MDA-MB-231 cells, and inhibited cell migration. In conclusion, fucoidan-coated PIBCA nanoparticles containing oncoA may be a promising alternative for further anticancer in vivo studies. [Display omitted]