Curcumin-loaded PEG-functionalized carbon nanotubes: a novel strategy for Alzheimer’s management

Curcumin (CUR) exhibits strong therapeutic potential for Alzheimer’s disease due to its antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-amyloid effects. However, its clinical application is limited by poor brain bioavailability. This study aimed to enhance CUR delivery to the brain via nasal administration using a novel formulation of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-functionalized carboxylated (COOH) Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNT). CUR-loaded MWCNT-COOH-PEG was developed and optimized using a 32 factorial design. The system was characterized for entrapment efficiency, particle size, zeta potential, and in vitro release. Neuroprotective efficacy was assessed through apoptosis inhibition in PC12 cells, and CUR concentration in the brain was measured post-nasal administration. The formulation achieved an entrapment efficiency of 91.4 ± 0.8%, a zeta potential of −31.1 ± 1.05 mV, and a particle size of 310 ± 7.92 nm. In vitro release was 95.42 ± 0.0004% at pH 5.5 and 89.98 ± 0.0039% at pH 7.4. CUR at 18.75 µg/mL inhibited apoptosis in PC12 cells after 24 h. Higher brain CUR concentrations were observed 4 h post-administration. CUR-loaded MWCNT-COOH-PEG effectively enhances brain bioavailability of CUR, demonstrating significant neuroprotective effects, and offers a promising approach for Alzheimer’s therapy.