Preparation, Characterization and In Vitro Anticancer Activity of Sulforaphene-Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

Sulforaphane (SFE) extracted from radish seeds has garnered significant research attention in recent years due to its notable biological activities, particularly its anticancer properties. However, SFE is highly sensitive to the environment; therefore, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) were used to embed SFE to enhance its stability. SFE-SLNs were characterized and compared with free SFE to assess the impact of SLNs on SFE. The SFE-SLNs exhibited a spherical shape with a uniform and stable distribution. FTIR analysis suggested that SLNs might distribute SFE both within and on their surface. The SLNs effectively protected free SFE from breaking down at high temperatures, in water with pH levels between 2.0 and 9.0, and while being stored for over 8 weeks at 25 °C. In addition, the SFE in SFE-SLNs exhibited a sustained release compared to a sudden release of free SFE, leading to enhanced absorption in the intestine and improved bioavailability. Embedding SFE in SLNs did not make it less effective at killing cancer cells. This study provides an effective approach to improving the efficiency and stability of SFE, which could aid in incorporating its beneficial characteristics into products such as beverages, dairy products, solid formulations, and dietary supplements.