Enhanced mitochondrial co-localization of β-escin micelle and pancreatic tumor accumulation relation

β-escin, a triterpenoid saponin derived from plants, is a valuable natural product that possesses strong anti-inflammatory, as well as the potential for anticancer effects. However, its limited water solubility restricts its application. The β-escin was efficiently loaded into Pluronic F127 micelles using the thin film method to improve its solubility and effectiveness. The formulations underwent various tests, including particle size, encapsulation efficiency, and product yield. Human pluripotent fibroblast and AsPC-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines were subjected to MTT studies. Fluorescence-labeled micelles were used to analyze cellular and mitochondrial uptake, and the results were analyzed using flow cytometry. The micelle formulation was found to be optimal with a particle size of 94.8 ± 6.35 nm, zeta potential of 43.2 ± 2.62 mV, PDI of 0.13 ± 0.01, and encapsulation efficiency of 93.20 ± 0.09. It demonstrated sustained release in all mediums. The micelle formulation had a stronger impact on cancer cells than healthy cells, but when compared to a marketed anticancer drug, it showed less ROS activity on healthy cells. Overall, the fluorescence-labeled micelle had greater uptake by cellular and mitochondrial systems. Micelles show great potential as a drug delivery system for β-escin and other similar anticancer candidates that operate through a mitochondria-mediated anticancer mechanism. [Display omitted]