Preparation and evaluation of albumin microspheres and microcapsules containing cisplatin

Albumin microspheres and microcapsules containing cisplatin (CDDP) were prepared and tested as chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. CDDP albumin microspheres were prepared by hardening with glutaric aldehyde in accordance with the method to prepare W/O emulsion. On the other hand, microcapsules were prepared by formation of a coacervate by the phase isolation method. CDDP albumin microspheres and microcapsules thus prepared were sieved and sterilized by dry heat at 135 degrees C for 4h prior to use. The content and release of CDDP were determined. The CDDP contents for albumin microspheres and microcapsules were found to be 9.2% and 33.3%, respectively. Release of CDDP in vitro was found to be significantly different between the two formulations. CDDP release in vivo was also investigated by injecting albumin microspheres and microcapsules into the hepatic artery of adult dogs. The blood CDDP concentrations after injection of both formulations were lower than those noted after injection of CDDP injectable solution, indicating that CDDP might be accumulated in the liver at a higher concentration and that use of the two formulations might result in alleviation of CDDP side effects.