Aims and Background:
Echis carinatus venom is a toxic substance naturally produced by special
glands in this snake species. Alongside various toxic properties, this venom has been used for its therapeutic
effects, which are applicable in treating various cancers (liver, breast, etc.).
Objective:
Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems are suitable for protecting Echis carinatus venom
against destruction and unwanted absorption. They can manage its controlled transfer and absorption, significantly reducing side effects
Methods:
In the present study, chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using the ionotropic gelation method with
emulsion cross-linking. The venom's encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity, and release rate were calculated at certain time points. Moreover, the nanoparticles' optimal formulation and cytotoxic effects were determined using the MTT assay.
Results:
The optimized nanoparticle formulation increases cell death induction in various cancerous cell lines.
Moreover, chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Echis carinatus venom had a significant rate of cytotoxicity
against cancer cells.
Conclusion:
It is proposed that this formulation may act as a suitable candidate for more extensive assessments
of cancer treatment using nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems.