Vesicles are supramolecular structures formed by self-assembled bilayers of surfactants in aqueous solution. These structures are used as carriers for biologically active molecules delivery, as they can enhance the solubility and bioavailability, and increase cellular uptake of certain drugs. In this study, we evaluated the incorporation of a full-spectrum ethanolic extract of chemotype III Cannabis sativa (EECs), containing acid cannabidiol as the main cannabinoid (18%) over tetrahydrocannabinol (1%). Cannabis extracts are known for proven therapeutic and antioxidant properties, although the low water solubility limits its use in aqueous formulations.
Large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs) made from soy lecithin were used as encapsulation systems for the extract. LUVs and EECs-loaded LUVs (EECs-LUVs) were prepared by the extrusion method mixing soy lecithin with different concentrations of EECs (10, 20, 30, 50 µL/mL) in ethanol. Vesicles formation was confirmed by dynamic light scattering, and incorporation of extract components was evidenced by fluorescence spectroscopy.
Photoprotective effect of the encapsulated extract was evaluated using eosin as a model dye. Eosin solutions in the presence and absence of LUVs and EECs-LUVs were irradiated with UV light (254 nm) for 1 to 9 minutes, and eosin degradation was monitored using UV-visible spectroscopy. Results showed a 50–75% reduction in eosin photodegradation in the presence of EECs-LUVs compared to eosin in water or with LUVs.
Also, a preliminary cytotoxicity assessment was carried out by evaluating the hemolytic effect. No significant differences in hemolysis were observed between cells incubated with EECs-LUVs and the control group, up to the highest concentration tested (0.5 mg/mL).
These findings demonstrate that EECs-LUVs are biocompatible and represent a potential carrier for cannabis extract. Moreover, they confirm the photoprotective effect of the encapsulated extract, suggesting applications in the development of new formulations that enhance stability under UV radiation and preserve other sensitive compounds within the matrix.
