Characterization of latex-antineoplastic drug complexes by differential scanning calorimetry and microphotography

Choline kinase inhibitors have recently been identified as potentially useful antitumoral agents. Here we determine the best conditions for obtaining drug-polymer complexes with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and JCR791B, a new drug representing a significant advance in the development of new molecules to inhibit tumour proliferation. As polymers we used the cellulose derivatives Aquacoat and Aquateric. The variables in the adsorption process measured were time to adsorbent-adsorbate equilibrium, pH and concentration. The drug-polymer complexes were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and microphotography. Our results show that adsorption of 5-FU and JCR was similar with both polymers although slightly greater with Aquacoat. The chemical structure of the drug and its solubility in water and oil are fundamental characteristics that determine the performance of polymers as drug carriers able to provide controlled release.