Ultrasonic synthesis of green lipid nanocarriers loaded with Scutellaria barbata extract: a sustainable approach for enhanced anticancer and antibacterial therapy

Abstract

Ultrasonic manufacturing has emerged as a promising eco-friendly approach to synthesize lipid-based nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery. This study presents the novel ultrasonic preparation of lipid nanocarriers loaded with Scutellaria barbata extract, repurposed for anticancer and antibacterial use. High-frequency ultrasonic waves enabled the precise self-assembly of DSPE-PEG, Span 40, and cholesterol to form nanocarriers encapsulating the therapeutic extract without the use of toxic solvents, exemplifying green nanotechnology. Leveraging the inherent anticancer and antibacterial properties of Scutellaria barbata, the study demonstrates that lipid encapsulation enhances the bioavailability and controlled release of the extract, which is vital for its therapeutic efficacy. Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy analyses confirmed the increase in size and successful encapsulation post-loading, along with an augmented negative zeta potential indicating enhanced stability. A high encapsulation efficiency of 91.93% was achieved, and in vitro assays revealed the loaded nanocarriers' optimized release kinetics and improved antimicrobial potency against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, compared to the free extract. The combination of ultrasonic synthesis and Scutellaria barbata in an eco-friendly manufacturing process not only advances green nanotechnology but also contributes to sustainable practices in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The data suggest that this innovative nanocarrier system could provide a robust platform for the development of nanotechnology-based therapeutics, enhancing drug delivery efficacy while aligning with environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Scutellaria barbata; Drug delivery; Eco-friendly manufacturing; Green nanotechnology; Lipid nanocarriers; Ultrasonic synthesis.