Biodegradable and Multifunctional Microspheres for Treatment of Hepatoma through Transarterial Embolization

To improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment, this study aimed to develop biodegradable microspheres and to combine chemotherapy and radiotherapy via transcatheter arterial embolization/chemoembolization (TAE/TACE) with local radiation therapy for the slow release of chemotherapeutic agents. Microparticles were prepared by double emulsification using a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer Poly(D,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA). Since the microspheres contain a water-soluble Poly(vinylsulfonic acid) (PVSA) solution, the functional groups of this polymer dissociate into -SO₃^- in water. The positively charged doxorubicin can be loaded into beads, ensuring slow release. After ¹⁸⁸Retin colloids were added into the microspheres, TACE was performed in a rat hepatocellular carcinoma model. Single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography imaging and biodistribution analyses showed that the microspheres were still in the liver after 72 h. During 4 weeks of observation, ultrasound images showed that the Re/DOX@MS treatment had the most significant inhibitory effect on tumor growth. Biodegradable PLGA microspheres have the advantage of enabling local embolization therapy with reduced adverse effects. In the future, microspheres could serve as a drug delivery system for cancer treatment by combining therapeutic radionuclides and chemotherapeutic drugs, thereby improving treatment effects for hepatocellular carcinoma.