Development and Evaluation of PLGA Nanoparticles Surfaced Modified with Chitosan-Folic Acid for Improved Delivery of Resveratrol to Prostate Cancer Cells

Resveratrol is an active ingredient in grapes with various biological and pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, phyto-estrogenic, antitumor, and anti-metastatic properties. However, its clinical applications are limited due to its photo-instability, low chemical stability, and poor bioavailability. This study aimed to address these limitations by developing resveratrol-loaded PLGA nanoparticles, modified with chitosan-folate (Res-PCF-NPs) and evaluating their anticancer effects against prostate cancer cells. The Res-PCF-NPs were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), zeta potential (ξ–potential), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analyses. The biological experiments included resazurin assay and real-time PCR analysis performed to determine the cytotoxicity and apoptosis effects of Res-PCF-NPs on PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Additionally, the oxidant-antioxidant potential of the nanoparticles was examined by measuring the activity of antioxidant enzymes and conducting the DCF-DA assay. The resazurin assay demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity of Res-PCF-NPs against PC-3 cells, with an IC50 of 83 and 51 μg/mL at 24 and 48 h, respectively. Real-time PCR analysis confirmed the effect of Res-PCF-NPs on inducing cell death in PC-3 cells by modulating the expression of apoptosis-related genes. Also, our data suggests that the anticancer effect of Res-PCF-NPs is mediated through the induction of oxidative stress in PC-3 cells. Overall, our findings highlight the potential use of Res-PCF-NPs as an effective anticancer treatment for human prostate cancer.