Enhanced Antibacterial, Anti-Biofilm, and Anticancer Activities of Liposome-Encapsulated Selenium Nanoparticles

Research conducted by Islamic Azad University, Zanjan, Iran, has led to a significant breakthrough in the development of a novel drug delivery system for oral cancer therapy. The study investigated the green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) and their encapsulation in liposomes to enhance their antibacterial and anticancer properties. The findings demonstrate that liposome-loaded SeNPs exhibit improved efficacy and biocompatibility, making them a promising candidate for targeted therapies.

Key Takeaways:

• The study utilized a green synthesis method to produce selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) with an average size of 270 nm and spherical morphology.
• The encapsulation efficiency of liposomes was determined to be 50.5%, with a controlled release profile of 61% over 64 hours.
• Liposome-loaded SeNPs demonstrated enhanced antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities against standard pathogenic bacterial strains.
• The cytotoxicity assay revealed that liposome-loaded SeNPs exhibited significantly higher cytotoxic effects on oral cells compared to free SeNPs.
• The study concluded that liposome-loaded SeNPs are an effective and biocompatible drug delivery system for oral cancer therapy.
• Researchers involved in the study included Mahsa Abbasi, Forough Motavaf, Helia Asadalizadeh, Sara Zandi, Forugh Charmduzi, Mina Asadi, Mahdi Jafarlou, Parizad Ghanbarikondori, and Meysam Ebrahimifar.

Statistics:

• Average size of SeNPs: 270 nm
• Encapsulation efficiency: 50.5%
• Controlled release profile: 61% over 64 hours
• Cytotoxicity assay: Liposome-loaded SeNPs exhibited a 50% increase in cytotoxic effects on oral cells compared to free SeNPs

Sources:

• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 2025; 26(8): 3005-3017
• "Researchers at Islamic Azad University Target Cancer Gene Therapy" (Biotech Week, September 17, 2025, p 134)