Characterization of Gelatin/O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan Hydrogels in Ovule Form with Curcumin and Retinyl Palmitate for Cervical Cancer Treatment

This study explores the development of gelatin/O-carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogels in ovule form, incorporating curcumin and retinyl palmitate, as a potential treatment for cervical cancer. The hydrogels demonstrated mucoadhesiveness, hydrophilicity, and controlled swelling behavior, with in vitro assays showing controlled degradation and drug release for up to 72 hours. Curcumin enhanced selective cytotoxicity against HeLa cells, while retinyl palmitate supported epithelial homeostasis and tissue remodeling. The study highlights the potential of these hydrogels for localized and controlled drug delivery in cervical cancer therapy, though further in vivo studies are needed to confirm their efficacy.