Development and evaluation of sesamol-loaded self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system for breast cancer

Background: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death among females in the world. Sesamol, which is an herbal phenolic compound, is investigated for its powerful antioxidant and anticancer motility. Sesamol induces growth arrest and apoptosis in malignant cells. However, its pharmaceutical significance is limited due to poor bioavailability. The self nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) is a type of lipid nanocarrier system that is suitable for the encapsulation of lipophilic drug molecules. Objectives: In the present study, Sesamol-loaded SNEDDS were developed, identified, and assessed for the enhancement of its in vitro dissolution rate and anticancer efficacy. Materials and Methods: Based on the solubilization potential of sesamol, the oil (Isopropyl myristate, Isopropyl palmitate, Caprylic capric triglycerides, Sesame oil) surfactant (Span 80, and Tween 80), and cosurfactant (Poly Ethylene Glycol 400) were chosen for the formulation of Sesamol-loaded SNEDDS. SNEDDS were prepared by an aqueous titration technique. Developed formulations were characterized and assessed for thermodynamic stability, self nanoemulsification efficiency, droplet size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, surface morphology, refractive index, the percent of transmittance, and drug release profile. Results: In vitro dissolution rate of Sesamol was significantly enhanced from the optimized formulation in comparison with pure drug. The finalized formulation was selected for in vitro anticancer effects in human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyl Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. MTT assay suggested remarkable anticancer efficacy of finalized Sesamol-loaded SNEDDS against MCF-7 cells compared with standard (Marketed preparation). Conclusion: The outcome of this study revealed the incredible potential of SNEDDS in the enhancement of in vitro dissolution rate and anticancer efficacy of the poorly soluble drug.