Development and evaluation of paclitaxel loaded PLGA:poloxamer blend nanoparticles for cancer chemotherapy

This investigation described the development of novel PLGA:poloxamer blend nanoparticles for intravenous administration of paclitaxel in order to limit the cremophor-associated adverse effects. The developed formulation was well-characterized using various techniques including scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. The nanoparticles had an average particle size around 180 nm and zeta potential of −22.7 mV. The in vitro release study of nanoparticles exhibited biphasic release pattern. The non-hemolytic potential of the nanoparticles indicated the suitability of the developed formulation for intravenous administration. The PLGA:poloxamer blend nanoparticles showed significantly improved cytotoxicity in cell lines (MCF-7 and Colo-205), as compared to free drug. Further, the developed formulation was stable under the accelerated storage conditions. In conclusion, the results indicated that the developed polymeric formulation is a novel and potential alternative for the paclitaxel delivery.