pH responsive biodegradable nanogels for sustained release of bleomycin

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Site-specific drug delivery for skin cancers faces challenges like poor efficacy and toxicity.
• Developing targeted therapies is crucial for improving treatment outcomes in dermal oncology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate pH-responsive, biodegradable chitosan nanogels for bleomycin delivery to the dermal layer.
• To evaluate the nanogel's potential for targeted and sustained anticancer drug release in skin cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Chitosan nanogels were synthesized using ion gelation and characterized for size (150nm), thermal stability, and biodegradation.
• Drug loading (55% entrapment), in vitro release, hemolysis, coagulation, and cell uptake studies were performed using HaCaT and HDF cell lines.
• Cytocompatibility was assessed via MTT assay.

Main Results:

• The nanogels exhibited optimal thermal stability and biodegradability.
• In vitro studies showed sustained bleomycin release and good biocompatibility (low hemolysis, normal coagulation times).
• Successful cell uptake and demonstrated cytocompatibility confirmed nanogel safety and efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Biodegradable, pH-responsive chitosan nanogels provide a promising platform for sustained anticancer drug delivery to skin.
• This nanogel system offers a controlled and targeted approach for treating skin cancers with enhanced patient compliance.