Preparation of novel quercetin-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles: Formulation and evaluation of their anticancer potential on SK-MEL-30 melanoma cell line

Quercetin, a hydrophobic compound with well-documented anticancer activity, presents challenges for therapeutic application due to its water insolubility, thus representing a promising candidate for encapsulation within solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to enhance its therapeutic application. In this study, SLNs were developed using an optimized formulation of Precirol ATO 5, Tween 80, Span 80, and ethanol, using the modified hot microemulsion technique. Quercetin was encapsulated within these nanoparticles, and the particle size, zeta potential, and polydispersity index (PDI) were analyzed to assess the formulation’s characteristics and stability. Final formulations were further characterized by electron microscopy. The anticancer efficacy of quercetin-loaded SLNs was evaluated in SK-MEL-30 (melanoma) and HaCaT (keratinocyte) cell lines. Additionally, an in vitro release assay was performed to monitor quercetin release dynamics. The encapsulation efficiency and release profile of quercetin were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).