Targeted cancer therapy using nanoparticles: Addressing biocompatibility, targeting efficiency and toxicity

This study investigates the development of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles functionalized with folic acid for targeted cancer therapy. Dual drug loading of doxorubicin and curcumin enhanced therapeutic efficacy through synergistic action. Nanoparticles were characterized for size, zeta potential, drug release kinetics, and targeting efficiency. Results demonstrated high drug encapsulation efficiency (89% for doxorubicin and 82% for curcumin), sustained release under physiological conditions (48% over 48 hours at pH 7.4), and enhanced cytotoxicity (IC50 = 11.4 µg/mL) against folate receptor-expressing MCF-7 cells. This approach addresses key challenges in nanoparticle-based therapy, including biocompatibility, precise targeting, and minimizing systemic toxicity.