The Novel Method for Delivery miRNA-34a: a New Cationic PEGylated Niosomal Formulation for the Treatment of Breast Cancer

Abstract Background: The reactive surface of nanoparticles makes it possible to simply modify with a biocompatible coating and load with therapeutic agents such as siRNA, miRNA, an anti-cancer drug, and antibody. MicroRNAs, like the noncoding RNAs, contribute critical to the regulation of numerous cellular functions via transcriptional silencing. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have enormous potential in cancer treatment, however, it is difficult to deliver them effectively to most solid tumors. The encapsulation of miRNA-34a in niosome nanoparticles is an attractive strategy for biopharmaceutical resources against cancer. The present study investigated the effectiveness of anticancer activity against MCF-7 and T47D human breast adenocarcinoma cells of a new noiosome system composed of nonionic surfactants. Methods: We used the optimum formulations to transfer miRNA-34a to breast cancer cells, providing potential benefits, such as exceptionally high entrapment efficiency (almost 100%), spherical shape, suitable positive charge (zeta potential~ + 24 mV) and small diameter (~100 nm). Results: The miRNA-34a-niosomes represented improved cytotoxic activity against the cancer cells compared to readily dispersed miRNA-34a. The resulting data indicate that delivery of miRNA-34a via niosome can affect tumor suppression, highlighting its promising anticancer effects in breast cancer cells. Conclusion: In conclusion, the developed a new carrier to improve the delivery of miRNA-34a into the tumor cells. The formulation provided in the present work is stable with a sustained release, high efficiency of miRNA-34a loading having a diameter of 115 nm. miRNA loading is performed without potentially harmful chemical reactions. Niosomes loaded with miRNA-34a in this study represented significant cytotoxic effects against the human breast cancer MCF-7 and T47D cells, which highlights their potential effect on this type of cancer cells.