Regulation of Phototherapeutic Efficacy in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Curcumin Nanosystems

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive treatment that specifically targets tumor cells without damaging surrounding tissues, making it a promising approach for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Curcumin (Cur), a natural photodynamic agent, has limited therapeutic efficacy due to its poor water solubility and bioavailability. Enhancing its delivery could improve treatment outcomes. A curcumin liposomal nanosystem (Lipo-Cur) was developed with an average size of 130-140 nm and a Zeta potential of -17 mV. Experiments included transdermal testing, CCK-8 assays, ROS detection, live/dead cell staining, EdU proliferation assays, Transwell and scratch tests, and Western blot analysis. Lipo-Cur significantly inhibited SCL-1 cell proliferation, with enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT) effects under blue light, outperforming 5-ALA at low doses. It showed significant cytotoxicity and inhibitory effects on SCL-1 cells, modulating protein expression related to proliferation and migration. Lipo-Cur demonstrates significant efficacy in PDT for SCC, offering a promising strategy for clinical treatment