In vitro evaluation of pH-sensitive liposomes loaded with d-limonene in targeting human malignant glioma cells

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme is a deadly form of brain tumor with limited treatment options and the existing treatment modalities possess their own pros and cons. Hence, our study aimed to incorporate d-limonene into the liposomal carrier and direct it toward U87MG cells to evaluate its cytotoxic and antiangiogenic activity. One of the prominent characteristics of cancer cells, is their acidic pH and hence, we aimed to synthesize pH-sensitive liposomal carriers, which could efficiently target U87MG cells at acidic pH. The results obtained from our study state that the drug-loaded liposomes were monodispersed, could easily penetrate the cells and render their mode of action. The drug-loaded liposomes effectively induced early apoptosis and showed potent antiangiogenic effects, suggesting its biological efficacy. Our study is the first report suggesting the cytotoxic and antiangiogenic potential of d-limonene-loaded liposomes against U87MG cells.