A targeted micellar formation of doxorubicin (Dox) and curcumin (Cur) was evaluated to enhance the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of these drugs in KG1a leukemic stem cells (LSCs) compared to EoL-1 leukemic cells. Dox-Cur-micelle (DCM) was developed to improve the cell uptake of both compounds in LSCs. Cur-micelle (CM) was produced to compare with DCM. DCM and CM were conjugated with two FLT3 (FMS-like tyrosine kinase)-specific peptides (CKR; C and EVQ; E) to increase drug delivery to KG1a via the FLT3 receptor (AML marker). They were formulated using a film-hydration technique together with a pH-induced self-assembly method. The optimal drug-to-polymer weight ratios for the DCM and CM formulations were 1:40. The weight ratio of Dox and Cur in DCM was 1:9. DCM and CM exhibited a particle size of 20–25 nm with neutral charge and a high %EE. Each micelle exhibited colloidal stability and prolonged drug release. Poloxamer 407 (P407) was modified with terminal azides and conjugated to FLT3-targeting peptides with terminal alkynes. DCM and CM coupled with peptides C, E, and C + E exhibited a higher particle size. Moreover, DCM-C + E and CM-C + E showed the highest toxicity in KG-1a and EoL-1 cells. Using two peptides likely improves the probability of micelles binding to the FLT3 receptor and induces cytotoxicity in leukemic stem cells.

Continuous exposure to pesticides is associated with both short- and long-term health effects, contributing to cellular and organelle toxicity. Pesticide exposure may also impair the function of internal organs, leading to adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the association between pesticide exposure and alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters among Thai agricultural workers. Whole blood, serum, plasma, and urine samples were collected from healthy male and female volunteers (control group, n = 57) and farm workers (exposure group, n = 61). A questionnaire was administered to collect personal information and daily lifestyle behaviors. Hematological indices and blood chemistry parameters were subsequently analyzed. Red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in female farm workers. Butyrylcholinesterase levels were significantly reduced in male farm workers. There were no statistically significant differences in inflammatory indices between the groups; however, these markers tended to be slightly higher among farm workers. In addition, linear regression analysis demonstrated that the frequency of pesticide use was significantly associated with changes in blood biochemical markers. In summary, our findings indicate that mixed pesticide exposure is associated with alterations in hematological parameters and cholinesterase activity, although no distinct changes were observed in other biochemical markers. These results may contribute to improved agricultural safety practices and support the development of public health services within the community.