Cubebin Niosomal Suspension Attenuates DMBA-Induced Breast Cancer Through the Involvement of Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors and Oxidative/Inflammatory/CA 15-3 Tumor Marker

Niosomal formulations of phytocompounds represent a promising approach in nanomedicine for enhancing anticancer therapeutics. This study investigated the efficacy of a niosomal formulation of cubebin against 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer in a rat model. The cubebin-loaded niosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method and characterized for their key physicochemical properties. The formulation demonstrated a mean particle size of 97.6 nm, a zeta potential of −20.1 mV, and achieved a sustained in vitro drug release of 98.89% over 8 h. In vivo assessment in DMBA-induced rats revealed that treatment with the niosomal cubebin suspension significantly attenuated tumor growth. The therapeutic effects were correlated with a modulation of key biochemical parameters. Specifically, the treatment restored levels of oxidative markers, mitigated inflammatory cytokine markers, and normalized hormonal profiles. Histopathological analysis further confirmed the anticancer activity, reducing mammary gland hyperplasia and neoplastic lesions. The collective findings indicate that the niosomal formulation of cubebin possesses significant chemopreventive and antitumor potential against experimental breast cancer.