Leukemia, a condition characterized by the abnormal proliferation of blood cells, poses significant challenges in cancer treatment. Thymoquinone (TQ), a bioactive compound derived from black seed, has demonstrated anticancer properties, including telomerase inhibition and the induction of apoptosis. However, TQ's poor solubility and limited bioavailability hinder its clinical application. This study explored the use of Sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD), a cyclodextrin derivative, to enhance the solubility and stability of TQ for leukemia treatment. SBE-β-CD offers low hemolytic activity and has been successfully employed in controlled drug release systems. The study investigated the formation of inclusion complexes between TQ and SBE-β-CD and evaluated their effects on leukemia cell growth and telomerase activity. The results indicated that the TQ/SBE-β-CD complex exhibited improved solubility and enhanced cytotoxic effects against K-562 leukemia cells compared to TQ alone, suggesting the potential of SBE-β-CD as a drug delivery system for TQ. The annexin V-FITC assay demonstrated increased apoptosis, while the qPCR quantification assay revealed reduced telomerase activity in leukemia cells treated with TQ/SBE-β-CD, supporting its anti-leukemic potential. The molecular docking analysis indicated a strong binding affinity between TQ and telomerase. However, further research is needed to optimize the apoptotic effects and minimize necrosis induction. In conclusion, TQ/SBE-β-CD shows promise as a novel strategy for leukemia treatment by inhibiting telomerase and enhancing the cytotoxic effects of TQ, offering a potential solution to overcome the limitations of TQ's poor solubility and bioavailability.
Keywords: SBE-β-CD; apoptosis; drug delivery system; leukemia; telomerase inhibition; thymoquinone.