Synthesis of luteolin loaded zein nanoparticles for targeted cancer therapy improving bioavailability and efficacy

A naturally occurring flavonoid, Luteolin possess wide range of pharmaceutical activities from anti-inflammatory to anticancer effect. Luteolin inhibits cell proliferation by arresting cell cycle pathways and triggers apoptotic cell death. Poor aqueous solubility of luteolin limits its oral bioavailability. Therefore, to improve the oral bioavailability of luteolin by use of biodegradable protein zein and sodium caseinate as nanocarrier. The nanoparticles were prepared by simple precipitation process. The resulting nanoparticles had mean size of 200-300 nm with negative zeta potential with 92% encapsulation efficiency and luteolin release at intestinal pH. Anti-oxidant activity of loaded molecule with respect to parent molecule significantly indicate the free radical scavenging potential of luteolin increases after encapsulation in zein nanoparticles. Luteolin loaded zein nanoparticles showed enhanced cytotoxicity against SW480 colon cancer cells and induces apoptosis. In this paper, we have shown the potential of luteolin loaded zein nanoparticles for treating colon cancer which could serve as promising strategy to develop oral formulation of this water insoluble drug enhancing its bioavailability.