Targeted cancer therapy potential of quercetin-conjugated with folic acid-modified nanocrystalline cellulose nanoparticles: a study on AGS and A2780 cell lines

This study investigates the effects of quercetin-conjugated nanocrystalline cellulose/cetyltrimethylammonium bromide/folic acid nanoparticles (NCC/CTAB/FA NPs) on AGS and A2780 cancer cell lines, focusing on their cytotoxicity and antioxidant capacity. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed an average particle size of 388.70 nm, suitable for cellular uptake and release kinetics. The NCC/CTAB/FA NPs exhibited a rod and spherical morphology and uniform distribution, as confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful synthesis and functional group integration, supporting the NPs' ability for drug delivery. The encapsulation efficiency value was 81.17%, demonstrating the effective incorporation of Quercetin. Cytotoxicity assays indicated significant reductions in cell viability for AGS and A2780 cells with IC₅₀ values of 3.2 µg/mL and 16.04 µg/mL, respectively, while HDF cells exhibited higher viability. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a dose-dependent induction of apoptosis in AGS cells, supported by changes in gene expression related to apoptosis and inflammation. Furthermore, antioxidant capacity assays demonstrated practical free radical scavenging abilities, with IC₅₀ values of 151.65 µg/mL for ABTS and 349.54 µg/mL for DPPH. NCC/CTAB/FA/Quercetin NPs exhibit promising characteristics for targeted cancer therapy and antioxidant applications.