Polymeric nanocapsules containing astaxantin for application as antioxidant agents in oncology.

Abstract

The development of multifunctional systems with individual properties acting in a coordinated way has been relevant in the search for early diagnosis methods and more efficient treatments. Systems based on nanoparticles to carry specific drugs and/or actives have been highlighted by the increase in biodistribution and the possibility of incorporating different compounds in a single system. Therefore, special attention has been given to polymeric nanoparticles of lactic acid derivatives as the main carrier due to their biodegradation stability and low toxicity. A promising active is astaxanthin (AST), a type of carotenoid, which exhibits stronger antioxidant activity than vitamin E, ²-carotene and ±-tocopherol. AST is a fat-soluble compound that can be found in vascular and avascular plants, such as microalgae, and is distinguished from each other in terms of the composition of its chain, which defines the molecular structure, chemical characteristics and light absorption capacity. This molecule has high marketing value, being used in the manufacture of food and cosmetic products. However, despite the advantages of using this free molecule, the are some disadvantages such as low bioavailability low water solubility, and instability under adverse conditions. Given the relevance of this topic, the present scientific initiation project aims at the nanoencapsulation of astaxanthin as a multifunctional system, in order to be applied with greater efficiency as an antioxidant agent. The efficiency and possible toxicity od nanocapsule-AST and free AST will be evaluated in in vitro tests using healthy cell lines.