Synthesis, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of artesunate-β-cyclodextrin conjugates as novel anti-cancer prodrugs

- Four artesunate-β-cyclodextrin conjugates were prepared and confirmed.
- XRD and TG spectrometry characterized these conjugates.
- The aqueous solubility of the conjugates was much higher than that of artesunate.
- The anti-colon cancer activities of ATS-2NβCD were better than those of artesunate.
- The mechanism of conjugates to release free drug into the cancer cells was explored.