Fig. 1

(a) MTX-LF-SLNs infiltrate colon cancer cells through endocytosis, discharging methotrexate while reusing lactoferrin for ongoing targeting. (b) Gradual development of MTX-SLNs through emulsification, sonication, stirring and lyophilization with trehalose to ensure stability. (c) The conjugation of lactoferrin through carbodiimide coupling improves targeting by creating robust covalent links with glyceryl monostearate.