Macauba oil carried by polymeric micelles reduces migration and proliferation of triple-negative breast cancer cells

Abstract

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for about 10–15% of all breast cancer cases, often affecting younger women and those with a BRCA1 mutation. It is more aggressive and has a higher recurrence risk within the first few years after diagnosis. Due to its aggressive nature, limited treatment options, and drug resistance, alternative strategies are urgently needed. In this context, Macauba (Acrocomia aculeata) is a South American palm with antioxidant-rich fruits containing fatty acids, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds, which can remove reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protect cells. Our study focused on creating Macauba pulp oil-loaded polymeric micelles (PM-MO) and assessing their impact on triple-negative breast cancer cells in terms of cytotoxicity, antiproliferation, and antimigration. Before formulating PM-MO, we conducted chemical characterization and testing of Macauba oil. Further, PM-MO presented hydrodynamic diameters of 105 nm, polydispersity index (PdI) of 0.12 and Zeta potential of −17.5 mV. PM-MO showed enhanced cytotoxicity against triple negative breast cancer cells after 48h and 72h, while no toxicity was observed on non-tumor cells. The clonogenicity assay showed a reduction in the formation of cell colonies ranging from 97% to 81.9% at the highest concentration of PM-MO. Treatment with PM-MO reduced breast cancer cell migration in vitro, indicating potential as an anti-metastatic agent. We conclude that the method used to produce PM-MO yielded well-sized nanoparticles with uniform distribution. Results from cell viability, proliferation, and migration tests highlight its potential for future in vivo trials against triple-negative breast cancer.