PLA-based core-shell structure stereocomplexed nanoparticles with enhanced loading and release profile of paclitaxel

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry
• Drug Delivery

Background:

• Paclitaxel (PTX) is a vital chemotherapy drug with limitations in solubility and side effects.
• Developing effective drug delivery systems is crucial for enhancing PTX efficacy and minimizing toxicity.
• Micelle-like nanoparticles offer a promising platform for encapsulating hydrophobic drugs like PTX.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate a novel degradable stereocomplexed micelle-like particle for high paclitaxel (PTX) loading.
• To create a drug delivery system with minimal long-term side effects.
• To investigate the potential of these nanoparticles as a PTX nanocarrier.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized methoxy polyethylene glycol (MPEG)-poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) and PTX-poly D-lactic acid-PTX copolymers.
• Utilized self-assembly to form MPEG-SCPLA-PTX micelle-like particles with a core-shell structure.
• Characterized copolymers and particles using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and GPC.

Main Results:

• Achieved high PTX loading efficiency, reaching 20.11% in MPEG2000Da-PLLA6000Da particles.
• Demonstrated controlled drug release profiles, with cumulative release ranging from 37.7% to 52.0% over 216 hours.
• Confirmed satisfactory inhibition of tumor cell growth through cell uptake experiments.

Conclusions:

• Stereocomplexed micelle-like particles show potential as effective nanocarriers for PTX delivery.
• The developed system offers high drug loading and controlled release, addressing limitations of conventional PTX formulations.
• These nanoparticles represent a promising strategy for improved cancer therapy with reduced side effects.