Synthesis of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) containing liposomes and its possible applications in the treatment of prostate cancer

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the science and engineering involved in the design, synthesis, characterization and application of materials and devices with at least one of their dimensions on the nanoscale (1-100 nanometres). Nanotechnology is a booming field in science, presenting with a wide variety of applications. Liposomes are multi-layered nanoparticle structures that are known to be excellent carriers for a variety of drugs to specific target sites, including cancer cells. The most recent and well-known application of liposomes came with the record-breaking creation of the SARS-CoV-2 (Coronavirus/ COVID-19) vaccines created by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. Studies have confirmed that Lepidium meyenii (Maca) possesses the ability to scavenge free radicals and protect cells against oxidative stress. The liposomes’ biocompatible and biodegradable nature would be a marriage of traditional and modern medicine, united to possibly create a safer and more efficient treatment options for prostate cancer. Materials and methods Liposomes encapsulated with Lepidium meyenii (Red Maca) extract were synthesized using the thin lipid film hydration technique, at a 7:3 w/w ratio. Characterization of the produced nanoparticles was performed using the Malvern Zetasizer NanoZs. This device determines the size, size-distribution/ polydispersity index (PDI), surface charge/zeta potential and stability of nanoparticles to assess the nanoparticles performance for possible medicinal applications. The effects of Maca-encapsulated liposomes were then investigated alongside the raw Maca extract on a cellular level using the LNCaP prostate cancer cell line, where the cell morphology, viability and wound healing assay were assessed over periods of 24 and 72 hours.