DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CUBOSOME-BASED NANOFORMULATIONS OF CURCUMIN FOR ENHANCED TARGETING AND TREATMENT OF MELANOMA

Abstract

Author(s): Dileep Kumar Garnipudi1, Varalaxmi. S2*

Objective: This study aimed to develop and characterise curcumin-loaded Cubosome formulations for enhanced targeting and treatment of melanoma, improving curcumin's bioavailability and therapeutic effectiveness. Methods: Curcumin was encapsulated in cubosomes made of glyceryl monooleate (GMO) and Pluronic F-127. The formulations were optimized by evaluating particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and in vitro release. Cytotoxicity was tested on A375 melanoma cells, and in vivo studies were performed on melanomabearing mice. Skin permeation was also assessed. Results: The optimized curcumin-loaded cubosomes had a particle size of 120 ± 2.5 nm, zeta potential of -30.1 ± 1.2 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 85.2%. In vitro, curcumin release was sustained, and cytotoxicity assays showed enhanced antiproliferative effects (IC50 = 2.3 μM). In vivo, significant tumour inhibition (~60%) and improved skin permeation were observed. Conclusion: Curcumin-loaded cubosomes are a promising delivery system for melanoma treatment, offering enhanced bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, with potential for topical application.

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