Noscapine-loaded collagen-based silver nanoparticles: a potent nano-therapeutic approach for cancer treatment

In this study, we investigated a method to develop multicomponent biodegradable nanoparticles for the delivery of noscapine to exploit its anti-proliferative, anti-cancer potential. The multicomponent nanoparticles were composed of a silver core stabilized with a collagen coating and loaded with noscapine (Ag-Col-Nos-NPs). Different concentrations of each component, molar ratios, reaction setup, and other variables were explored to optimize the final reaction. Ag-Col-Nos-NPs were then characterized for their physicochemical properties using UV-visible spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and, Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR). Evaluation of <i>in vitro</i> drug release and the cytotoxic potential of Ag-Col-Nos-NPs in an <i>in vitro</i> model of non-small cell lung cancer (H1299) displayed increased solubility and sustained release of noscapine with less deviation. In conclusion, our study observed Ag-Col-Nos-NPs as potential and stable carriers for the delivery of noscapine and other hydrophobic drugs to enable their therapeutic use.