Development and characterization of DHA-integrated nanostructured lipid carrier formulations for enhanced cellular binding and uptake

In the present study, the effect of the variations in lipid and emulsifier composition of nanostructured carriers (NLCs) designed for drug delivery on cancer treatment, related with their physicochemical and cellular interactions, was explored. Stearic acid was used as the solid lipid matrix, combined with acid or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as the liquid lipid. The resulting NLCs were characterized light scattering, atomic force microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry, revealing uniform and particle size within the 100-200 nm range which is suitable for overcoming biological barriers. studies were performed using R18-labeled NLCs on ECV304 (carcinoma) and U87 (glioblastoma) assess cytotoxicity and uptake. No significant toxicity was observed up to 5 mu g/mL. Among the NLCs containing DHA (NLC-4DHA) demonstrated markedly enhanced cellular binding and uptake, ECV304 cells, as confirmed by flow cytometry analysis. These findings indicate that DHA-based favorable biocompatibility and interaction profiles, positioning them as promising candidates for delivery in cancer therapy.