pH-responsive Gelatin/Agarose/Magnesium-doped carbon quantum dot hydrogel nanocomposite for targeted curcumin delivery in brain cancer therapy

This research examines the formulation and characterization of a pH-sensitive nanocarrier for the targeted and controlled release of curcumin (Cur) in the treatment of brain cancer. The nanocarrier consists of gelatin (G), agarose (Aga), and magnesium-doped carbon quantum dots (Mg-CQD), produced by a water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) double emulsification method. These materials demonstrate pH responsiveness, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, crucial for addressing Cur's limitations, including inadequate solubility and fast metabolism. In vitro cytotoxicity assays on U-87 MG glioma cells showed a 49 % reduction in cell viability, whereas minimal toxicity was observed in L929 fibroblast cells, indicating selective anticancer potential. The nanocarrier exhibited a regulated and extended release of Cur under acidic conditions, achieving encapsulation and loading efficiencies of 45.75 % and 85.5 %, respectively, hence enhancing its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Characterization confirmed uniform nanoparticle distribution (average size: 193.5 nm; zeta potential: −42 mV) and successful drug encapsulation. FTIR, XRD and FE-SEM tests validated the effective drug encapsulation, uniform distribution of nanoparticles, and stability. The findings underscore the nanocarrier's potential for targeted cancer therapy, providing both therapeutic efficacy and safety, with intriguing applications in nanomedicine.