Formulation and Characterisation of pH-Sensitive Eudragit L-100 Nanoparticles for Quercetin Delivery in Lung Carcinoma

Quercetin is a flavonoid found abundantly in many vegetables and fruits. Quercetin is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties. The present study aims to formulate quercetin nanoparticles (Qu-NPs) for targeting lung carcinoma cells. Qu-NPs were formulated using the pH-sensitive polymer Eudragit® L-100. The physicochemical properties of the Qu-NPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro drug release of Qu-NPs was assessed using the dialysis bag method. Cytotoxic activity of Qu-NPs against non-small cell lung cancer cell line (NCI-H460), and normal human lung fibroblasts cell line (CCD-19Lu) was assessed using the 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. DLS results indicated a mean particle size of 242.86 ± 20.61 nm, zeta potential of -18.2 ± 2.97 mV and polydispersion index of 0.266 ± 0.008 for Qu-NPs. FT-IR spectra confirmed the presence of hydrogen bonds between quercetin and the polymer, which is crucial for drug entrapment and release. XRD and SEM analysis demonstrated the amorphous nature of quercetin within the nanoparticles. In vitro drug release studies revealed a sustained drug release across different pH conditions including simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2), and intestinal fluid (pH 6.8, and pH 7.4). Cytotoxicity assay revealed a potent cytotoxic effect of Qu-NPs against NCI-H460. This study underscores the potential of Eudragit® L-100 nanoparticles (NPs) as carriers for quercetin in cancer therapy. It also highlights the potential of Qu-NPs for improved drug efficacy through targeted and controlled release.