Targeted Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Formulation for Colon Cancer Treatment and Cytotoxicity Assessment Using HT29 Cell Line

Background: Several pharmacological effects have been attributed to thymol. However, limitations such as low solubility in water, low bioavailability, and high volatility have limited its use. Objectives: The present study aimed to prepare and characterize thymol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to improve the efficacy of thymol. Methods: Thymol-loaded SLNs were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Cytotoxicity study and hemolysis assay were also performed. Results: The in vitro drug release showed a sustained manner. Also, SLNs loaded with thymol showed higher cytotoxicity than free thymol, and the hemolysis results indicated the blood biocompatibility of SLNs. Conclusions: As nanocarriers, SLNs can open a new avenue for improving the efficacy of thymol in cancer treatment.