Labrasol ^® Micelles as Next‐Generation Nanomedicine: Characterization, Encapsulation, and Cytotoxicity of Quercetin and Curcumin for Lung Cancer Treatment

Abstract Conventional chemotherapy often suffers from poor specificity, causing toxicity and limiting therapeutic outcomes. Nanomedicine offers a promising approach by enhancing drug penetration and minimizing side effects. Labrasol ® , a well‐known nonionic surfactant and permeation enhancer, has been widely applied in mixed micellar systems; however, its independent micellization behavior and potential as a nanocarrier for anticancer therapy remain underexplored. This study investigated the solubility, stability, and cytotoxicity of quercetin (QCT) and curcumin (CUR) when incorporated into Labrasol ® micelles, with cytotoxic effects assessed in human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cells. Phase behavior analysis using the cloud point (CP) method revealed that salt reduced CP via a salting‐out effect. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) showed that micelle size increased with concentration, temperature, and salt, while small‐angle neutron scattering (SANS) confirmed the formation of ellipsoidal micelles. UV–visible spectroscopy demonstrated enhanced solubility of QCT and CUR in Labrasol ® micelles, which improved further in the presence of salt. Importantly, in vitro assays showed significantly lower IC 50 values for drug‐loaded micelles compared to free drugs, confirming improved cytotoxicity. Overall, Labrasol ® micelles represent a promising standalone nanocarrier for lung‐targeted drug delivery, offering a strong foundation for the development of pulmonary nanomedicines in cancer therapy.