Abstract
Desert truffles, particularly Terfezia claveryi and Terfezia boudieri, have long attracted scientific interest due to their rich array of bioactive compounds and potential anticancer properties. Yet, despite their promise, their use in treatment protocols is still limited by poor solubility and low bioavailability.
In this research, we set out to systematically evaluate the anticancer effects of T. claveryi and T. boudieri in breast cancer models, aiming to enhance their therapeutic potential through nanoencapsulation with cyclodextrins and to explore possible synergy with doxorubicin in overcoming drug resistance.
To address these goals, the truffles extracts have been encapsulated in hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD), seeking to improve both stability and bioavailability. The cytotoxicity of these formulations was examined via MTT assays on both drug-sensitive (MCF-7) and doxorubicin-resistant (ADR-MCF-7) breast cancer cell lines, across 24, 48, and 72-hour intervals. These assays have been complemented with flow cytometry to analyze apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest. To take these findings a step further, we had conducted in vivo study in a mouse model, evaluating both systemic toxicity and therapeutic efficacy.
The results were clarified that nanoencapsulation with cyclodextrin led to a more sustained release and markedly improved cytotoxic effects, especially after 72 hours in vitro model. Flow cytometry confirmed significant induction of apoptosis and cell cycle disruption, with nanoformulated extracts consistently outperforming their free counterparts.
School
School of Sciences and Engineering
Department
Biotechnology Program
Degree Name
MS in Biotechnology
Graduation Date
Fall 2-15-2026
Submission Date
1-24-2026
First Advisor
Anwar Abdelnaser
Committee Member 1
Dr Hatem Talima
Committee Member 2
Dr. Ehab El Sawy
Committee Member 3
Dr. Ahmed Shahat
Extent
211p.
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Institutional Review Board (IRB) Approval
Not necessary for this item
Disclosure of AI Use
Other
Other use of AI
Parphrasing Tool
Recommended Citation
APA Citation
Nouh, R. A.
(2026).Nanoencapsulation of Terfezia Claveryi and Terfezia Boudieri Using Cyclodextrins for Targeted Breast Cancer Therapy [Master's Thesis, the American University in Cairo]. AUC Knowledge Fountain.
https://fount.aucegypt.edu/etds/2723
MLA Citation
Nouh, Roua Aref. Nanoencapsulation of Terfezia Claveryi and Terfezia Boudieri Using Cyclodextrins for Targeted Breast Cancer Therapy. 2026. American University in Cairo, Master's Thesis. AUC Knowledge Fountain.
https://fount.aucegypt.edu/etds/2723
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Chemicals and Drugs Commons, Diseases Commons, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Commons