Synthesis and Investigation of Apoptosis and Anti‐Metastatic Effects of Niosomes Containing the Extract of <i>Colchicum kotschyi</i> in MCF‐7

ABSTRACT Niosomes are nonionic surfactant vesicles that offer a promising strategy to overcome challenges in targeted delivery of herbal medicines. This study aimed to investigate the apoptotic and anti‐metastatic effects of niosome‐encapsulated Colchicum kotschyi corm extract on the MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line. The plant extract was prepared using the Soxhlet method, and niosomes were synthesized via the thin‐film hydration method and subsequently loaded with the extract. Physicochemical characterization confirmed the successful formation of spherical and uniform niosomes. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that niosome‐containing extract exhibited significantly higher toxicity against MCF‐7 cells compared to free extract or free niosomes. Treatment with niosome‐encapsulated extract significantly upregulated the pro‐apoptotic gene Bax and downregulated the anti‐apoptotic and metastasis‐associated genes Bcl2 , MMP2 , and MMP9 . Flow cytometry analysis confirmed a higher rate of apoptosis in cells treated with the IC 50 concentration of niosome‐containing extract compared to free extract or free niosomes. Notably, this study represents the first application of C. kotschyi extract in niosomal formulations, demonstrating that niosomal encapsulation enhances extract stability, enables targeted delivery, and exerts potent apoptotic and anti‐metastatic effects against MCF‐7 cells. Summary Nanotechnology and Drug Delivery : Niosomal encapsulation of Colchicum kotschyi extract enhances stability and targeted delivery, offering a promising nanotechnology‐based strategy for cancer therapy. Molecular and Cellular Biology : The niosome‐loaded extract induces apoptosis and suppresses metastasis by modulating Bax, Bcl2 , MMP2 , and MMP9 gene expression in MCF‐7 cells. Translational and Clinical Relevance : This study highlights the potential of integrating traditional herbal medicine with modern nanocarriers to develop innovative anticancer therapeutics.