Green Synthesized Fe 3 O 4 Polymer Nanocomposites for Controlled Ibuprofen Release and Cytotoxicity Against MCF‐7 Breast Cancer Cells

ABSTRACT Ibuprofen (IBU), a widely used nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, is therapeutically important but is limited by its poor aqueous solubility and bitter taste. Pectin, a natural biopolymer, has gained considerable attention for its biocompatibility and encapsulation efficiency, making it suitable for controlled drug delivery. In this study, we present a green synthesis route for magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4 NPs) using Opuntia humifusa fruit extract, which functions as both a reducing and stabilizing agent. The synthesized Fe 3 O 4 NPs were subsequently functionalized with pectin and loaded with ibuprofen to obtain Fe 3 O 4 @Pectin‐IBU nanocomposites (Fe 3 O 4 @Pectin‐IBU‐NPs). Comprehensive physicochemical characterization using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques confirmed the successful formation of the nanocomposites. Drug release studies demonstrated that up to 84.54 ± 2.45% of ibuprofen was released at pH 4.2 under an external magnetic field, indicating a magnetically responsive and pH‐sensitive release behavior. The Fe 3 O 4 @Pectin‐IBU‐NPs also exhibited notable cytotoxicity against MCF‐7 breast cancer cells (IC 50 = 92.7 µg/mL) and significant anti‐inflammatory activity (IC 50 = 25.10 µg/mL). Overall, these results underscore the potential of Fe 3 O 4 @Pectin‐IBU‐NPs as a promising nanoplatform for targeted drug delivery and breast cancer therapy, offering an eco‐friendly and effective alternative to conventional treatment strategies.