Co-Loaded Nanoparticles of Empagliflozin and Rutin for Pancreatitis Prevention and Anticancer Activity

Abstract

Cancer treatment faces challenges like nonselective toxicity and drug resistance, prompting the need for innovative therapies. This study aimed to develop liposomal formulations for co-delivery of empagliflozin and rutin, evaluating their anticancer and antioxidant efficacy. PEGylated empagliflozin-loaded nanoliposomes (Empa-NLs) and empagliflozin-rutin co-loaded nanoliposomes (Empa-Rut NLs) were synthesized using the thin-film hydration technique. The formulations were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index (PDI), encapsulation efficiency, and stability. Antiproliferative activity was assessed through MTT assay, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers were evaluated using ELISA. Empa-NLs had a size of 118.9 ± 0.97 nm, zeta potential of –0.135 ± 0.74mV, and PDI of 0.198 ± 0.11, while Empa-Rut NLs measured 133.4 ± 1.01 nm, zeta potential of –8.78 ± 0.85 mV, and PDI of 0.13 ± 0.01, with significant differences (p ≤ 0.01). Encapsulation efficiency was 10.8 ± 0.103% for empagliflozin and 66.92 ± 0.05% for rutin. Both drugs displayed a biphasic release profile. Free empagliflozin showed stronger antiproliferative activity at lower concentrations, while Empa-Rut NLs were more effective at higher concentrations. Empa-NLs upregulated IL-1β and downregulated catalase, while Empa-Rut NLs and rutin reduced IL-1β and increased catalase. VEGF levels were elevated with empagliflozin but decreased in the presence of rutin and Empa-Rut NLs. Co-loading empagliflozin and rutin in nanoliposomes enhanced anticancer efficacy and modulated inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, suggesting that this combined drug delivery system may improve cancer therapy outcomes.