New Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) Microparticles with Paclitaxel Sustained Release for Intraperitoneal Administration

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Cancer Therapeutics

Background:

• Poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA) are gaining attention for their biodegradability and biocompatibility, making them promising for advanced drug formulations.
• Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), a type of PHA, is explored for its potential in controlled drug release applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a sustained-release formulation of paclitaxel (PTX) using poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) microparticles.
• To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of PTX-loaded PHB microparticles as an anticancer drug delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded PHB microparticles were fabricated using a spray-drying technique with a Nano Spray Dryer B-90.
• In vitro drug release kinetics and cytotoxicity against the MH-22a murine hepatoma cell line were assessed.
• In vivo antitumor activity was evaluated in murine models, including Lewis lung carcinoma and human breast cancer xenografts (RMG1).

Main Results:

• Uniform release of PTX from PHB microparticles was sustained over a 2-month period.
• PTX-loaded PHB microparticles exhibited significant antitumor effects compared to the free drug in vitro.
• Significant in vivo antitumor activity was observed in mouse models of Lewis lung carcinoma and human breast cancer xenografts following intraperitoneal administration.

Conclusions:

• The developed PHB microparticle formulation enables sustained delivery of PTX, showing therapeutic potential for prolonged anticancer treatment.
• This biodegradable drug delivery system offers a promising strategy for enhancing the efficacy of paclitaxel in cancer therapy.