Preparation and characterization of paclitaxel delivery system based on semi-solid lipid nanoparticles coated with...

The current formulation of paclitaxel causes significant side effects, so there is a need to develop a safer delivery system. In this study, novel semi-solid lipid nanoparticles (PEG-PE-SSLN) were prepared, and evaluated as delivery vehicles for paclitaxel. The PEG-PE-SSLN are approximately 213 nm in size with a zeta-potential of -37 mV, compared to Span60-SSLN with a particle size of over 275 nm and zeta-potential of -29 mV. The encapsulation efficiency of PEG-PE-SSLN could be as high as 98%. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated that paclitaxel in the nanoparticles existed in an amorphous form. A sustained release of 85% of the loaded paclitaxel from PEG-PE-SSLN within 12 days was observed while release from Span60-SSLN particles was complete within 6 days. PEG-PE-SSLN can effectively decrease phagocytosis of murine peritoneal macrophages. Lyopholization of SSLNs in the presence of trehalose tended to preserve their stability. Therefore, PEG-PE-SSLN represents an improved and promising paclitaxel delivery system.