Development of new liposomal formulations of quercetin – in vitro study

Quercetin is a chemical compound present in many fruits and vegetables, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, this bioactive flavonoid can induce apoptosis in abnormally developing cells. The aim of the study was to develop an effective method for encapsulating quercetin in liposomes and to evaluate the drug encapsulation efficiency, stability of the formulation and anticancer effects on melanoma cells. The results showed that quercetin can be successfully encapsulated in the aqueous phase of liposomes by complexing it with copper ions. To assess the cytotoxicity of the liposomal quercetin, SRB assays were performed on two melanoma cell lines, A-375 and C32, as well as on normal human keratinocytes, HaCaT. This formulation exhibited a cytotoxic effect on melanotic melanoma cells but not on normal cells, indicating the possible use of liposomal quercetin in anticancer treatment.