Cytoprotective Effects of Nicorandil Nanoliposomes Coated with Tocopheryl Polyethylene Glycol Succinate against Toxicity Induced by Bisphenol A

Abstract

Background: Bisphenol A is a widely used chemical in various industries and has cytotoxic and genotoxic effects. Nicorandil is a drug for the treatment of ischemic heart disease with useful antioxidant and tissue-protective properties. In the present study, nicorandil nanoliposomes coated with tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate-1000 were developed to enhance its antioxidant properties, and their protective effects were evaluated against bisphenol A-induced cytotoxicity. Methods: Nanoliposomes were prepared by the film hydration method, and the characteristics of the particles, loading efficiency, and release profile were assessed. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were exposed to bisphenol A (450 µM) after 24-hr pretreatment with nicorandil or nicorandil-nanoliposomes (1–100 µM). Cell viability (MTT assay), intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and glutathione content were evaluated. Results: Nanoliposomes were obtained with proper particle characteristics and a loading efficiency of 76. The IC50 of bisphenol A was calculated as about 450 µM. Pretreatment of cells with nicorandil and nicorandil-nanoliposomes significantly reduced intracellular ROS levels and increased TAC but could not elevate cellular glutathione content. Nicorandil-nanoliposomes led to a greater decrease in ROS and increase in TAC than did nicorandil. Conclusion: The findings indicate the cytoprotective and antioxidant effects of nicorandil nanoliposomes coated with tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate against cytotoxicity induced by bisphenol A. © (2026), (Arak University of Medical Sciences). All rights reserved.