Quercetin against MCF7 and CAL51 breast cancer cell lines: apoptosis, gene expression and cytotoxicity of nano-quercetin.

Aims: To evaluate the anti breast-cancer activity, biocompatibility and toxicity of poly(d,l)-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA)-encapsulated quercetin nanoparticles (Q-PLGA-NPs). Materials & methods: Quercetin was nano-encapsulated by an emulsion-diffusion process, and the nanoparticles were fully characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray diffractions, FESEM and zeta-sizer analysis. Activity against CAL51 and MCF7 cell lines were assessed by DNA fragmentation assays, fluorescence microscopy, and acridine-orange, and propidium-iodide double-stainings. Biocompatibility towards red blood cells and toxicity towards mice were also explored. Results: The Q-PLGA-NPs exhibited apoptotic activity against the cell lines. The murine in vivo studies showed no significant alterations in the liver and kidney's functional biomarkers, and no apparent abnormalities, or tissue damages were observed in the histological images of the liver, spleen, lungs, heart and kidneys. Conclusion: The study established the preliminary in vitro efficacy and in vivo safety of Q-PLGA-NPs as a potential anti-breast cancer formulation.

Lay abstract Quercetin is a flavonoid, a type of chemical, antioxidant in nature, found in many fruits and vegetables. It is known to have anticancer properties. In this study, quercetin was encased into nano-sized particles of biologically compatible and bio-degradable synthetic polymer, named PLGA (poly-[D,L]-lactic-co-glycolic acid). The effects of the quercetin nanoparticles/nano-quercetin were tested against two types of breast cancer cell lines in the laboratory. The quercetin-loaded nanoparticles were able to kill the breast cancer cells, suggesting they could be able to kill the cancer cells in the body. Also, when given to mice, the quercetin nanoparticles did not appear to damage any organ, or change the functions of the liver, and kidneys, thereby suggesting that they are not toxic. Further work is required to assess how well they could be used to treat breast cancer in people.

Workplace barriers encountered by employed persons with systemic sclerosis.

BACKGROUND: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an auto-immune connective tissue disease characterized by fibrosis of skin, blood vessels, and internal organs that results in significant disability. OBJECTIVE: To identify the work barriers faced by people with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in maintaining employment. METHODS: Thirty-six people with SSc who were working more than 8 hours per week completed the Work Experience Survey, which contains lists of potential work barriers, including the ability to travel to and from work; get around at work; perform essential job functions, including physical, cognitive, and task-related activities; work with others; and manage work conditions. RESULTS: Thirty-three participants completed and returned the questionnaires, most of whom were female, and working full time and in professional careers. Principal disease symptoms included fatigue, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal involvement, and leg or hand/wrist pain. All participants reported some barriers with a mean of 18 barriers per participant. At least three quarters of participants cited outside temperature (82%), cold temperatures inside the workplace (76%), and household work (76%), as barriers. The next most common barriers were using both hands (64%), arranging and taking part in social activities (64%), being able to provide self-care (61%) and working 8 hours (58%). CONCLUSION: Participants reported a wide range of barriers, from cold temperatures, to physical job, fatigue related, and non-workplace demands, in maintaining the worker role. The barriers reflect the disease symptoms they reported. Identifying workplace barriers facilitates the creation of job accommodations or adaptations that will allow people with SSc to continue working.