Dual Modulation of Canonical and Non-canonical TGF-β/ROS/Erk1/2 Pathways: Synergistic Activation of Nrf-2 and Antioxidant Enzymes (SOD1, GPx, HO-1) by Quercetin Loaded in Solid Lipid Nanoparticles and Curcumin in Atherosclerosis Therapy

The findings demonstrate that the combination of QCT encapsulated in SLNs and curcumin synergistically reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in TGF-β-stimulated VSMCs. This effect is achieved through the inhibition of ROS/Erk1/2 signaling and the activation of Nrf2 and antioxidant enzymes. These natural compounds, when used together, represent a promising therapeutic approach for mitigating the inflammatory processes associated with atherosclerosis.