Development of bozepinib-loaded nanocapsules for nose-to-brain delivery: preclinical evaluation in glioblastoma

Abstract

Aim: To develop and characterize bozepinib-loaded lipid-core nanocapsules (BZP-LNC+) as a potential treatment for glioblastoma (GBM). Methods: Characterization of nanocapsules was performed by diameter, polydispersity index, zeta potential, pH and encapsulation efficiency. GBM cell viability, cell cycle and Annexin/PI were evaluated after BZP-LNC+ treatment. Synergism between BZP-LNC+ and temozolomide (TMZ) was performed by CompuSyn software and confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Results: BZP-LNC+ showed adequate particle sizes, positive zeta potential, narrow size distribution and high encapsulation efficiency. BZP-LNC+ reduces GBM growth by inducing apoptosis. BZP-LNC+ and TMZ showed synergistic effect in vitro and reduced the in vivo glioma growth by approximately 81%. Conclusion: The present study provides proof-of-principle insights for the combination of these drugs for GBM treatment.