Nanoliposomal formulation of Agrostemma githago aqueous extract shows enhanced cytotoxic effect on gastric cancer cell line

The objective of this study was to determine the cytotoxic effects of nanoliposomal form of lyophilized aqueous extract of Agrostemma githago (A. githago) seeds on gastric cancer cell line (AGS) using cell viability tests. Lyophilized aqueous extract of A. githago seeds was prepared. Liposomes were also prepared by thin-film hydration method and their stability and size were characterized by SEM. The size and zeta potential were determined by Malvern Zetasizer. Cytotoxic effects of nanoliposomes on gastric cancer cell line was determined using MTT, Neutral Red and Frame methods. The size of liposomes was around 171.5 nm with proper dispersion (PDI=0.268). The morphology of the liposomes was suitable according to SEM images. The IC50 values indicated that the nanoliposomal form of extract was 3-4 times more active than extract alone. Average IC50 values for extract and liposomal form of extract were 13.02 ± 0.95 and 4.43 ± 1.49 ug/ml, respectively. This study showed that liposomal form of aqueous extract of A. githago seeds exerts cytotoxic effect at significantly lower concentrations than the extract itself.