Folic acid-conjugated ferulic acid-entangled single-walled carbon nanotubes: a targeted therapeutic approach for effective breast cancer treatment

Abstract

Breast cancer remains one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths in the world for women, which emphasizes the need for better treatment approaches. Conventional therapies target both cancerous as well as normal cells, which can lead to serious adverse effects. This research aimed to develop a targeted therapy employing a new folic acid-conjugated Ferulic Acid-Entangled Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (FA-FeA-SWCNTs) formulation to maximize treatment specificity and reduce off-target effects. The efficiency of the FA-FeA-SWCNTs formulation against breast cancer is assessed in this study. Molecular modelling studies were performed to predict the mechanism of action of ferulic acid. FA-FeA-SWCNTs particle size analysis, FTIR, XRD, and SEM were assessed to confirm the formulation tethered to single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). MTT assay against MCF-7 cells and CAM assays in chicken eggs were executed to measure cytotoxicity and evaluate anti-angiogenesis efficacy. Sub-acute oral toxicity by OECD 407 guidelines and DMBA-induced breast cancer models in female Wistar rats were used to examine the in vivo anticancer efficacy. The potential therapeutic mechanism was suggested by the study's finding that the Ferulic Acid strongly interacted with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The formulation showed excellent-, stability, and suitable particle size. Through in vitro tests, substantial anti-angiogenic effects (71.2 % inhibition) and significant cytotoxicity (IC50 of 19.60 μg/mL) were identified. Subacute toxicity tests verified a favorable safety profile, and in vivo, the formulation successfully decreased tumor growth and improved overall wellness, making it a viable option for more clinical investigation.