G-4270

Preparation of nanoparticles based ulvan polysaccharide for bevacizumab and evaluation of its toxicity in hepatocellular carcinoma

 Masoume Tavakol ¹ ℗, Dr.Ladan Dayani ¹ ©   

 
Abstract

Introduction: Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting VEGF-A, plays a central role in inhibiting angiogenesis in liver cancer. Its rapid degradation and systemic clearance limit clinical effectiveness. Biopolymeric nanoparticles, particularly those based on marine polysaccharides like ulvan, offer a biodegradable and biocompatible platform for sustained drug delivery. Methods and Materials: Ulvan-based nanoparticles encapsulating Bevacizumab were prepared via ionic gelation using calcium chloride as a crosslinker and poloxamer 188 as stabilizer. Particle size, morphology, thermal behavior, functional group interaction, and crystallinity were assessed by DLS, FESEM, FTIR, DSC, and XRD. Drug encapsulation efficiency and release kinetics in PBS were analyzed via Bradford assay and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Cytotoxic effects were evaluated in HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells using the MTT assay. Results: Optimized nanoparticles displayed spherical morphology and a mean particle size of approximately 600 nm, with polydispersity indices 0.3 indicating good uniformity. FTIR and DSC confirmed successful encapsulation without drug degradation. XRD results suggested partial amorphous character. Encapsulation efficiency exceeded 85%, and sustained release was observed over a 48-hour period. MTT assay demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells for drug-loaded nanoparticles, while blank formulations showed acceptable biocompatibility. Conclusion and Discussion: Ulvan-based nanoparticles formulated at ~600 nm exhibit promising characteristics for Bevacizumab delivery, including stability, controlled release, and effective anti-proliferative activity. While particle size may influence cellular uptake dynamics, the system remains suitable for targeted liver cancer therapy. Further studies are warranted to assess in vivo performance and therapeutic impact.

Keywords: Ulvan, Bevacizumab, Hepatocellular carcinoma