Nano-engineering of biomedical prednisolone liposomes: evaluation of the cytotoxic effect on human colon carcinoma cell lines

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Liposomes have attracted the attention of researchers due to their potential to act as drug delivery systems for cancer treatment. The present investigation aimed to develop liposomes loaded with prednisolone base and the evaluation of the antiproliferative effect on human colon carcinoma cell lines. Methods Liposomes were elaborated by following a reproducible thin film hydration technique. The physicochemical characterization of liposomes included photon correlation spectroscopy, microscopy analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, rheological behaviour and electrophoresis. On the basis of these data and drug loading values, the best formulation was selected. Stability and drug release properties were also tested. Key findings Resulting liposomes exhibited optimal physicochemical and stability properties, an excellent haemocompatibility and direct antiproliferative effect on human colon carcinoma T-84 cell lines. Conclusions This study shows direct antitumour effect of prednisolone liposomal formulation, which opens the door for liposomal glucocorticoids as novel antitumour agents.