Binding interactions of water-soluble camptothecin derivatives with bovine serum albumin

In this study, the binding interactions of the water-soluble camptothecin derivatives hydroxycamptothecin (10-HCPT), topotecan (TPT), and camptothecin quaternary salt (CPT8), to bovine serum albumin (BSA) were determined using fluorescence spectra and UV–vis spectra. The results revealed that the fluorescence of BSA was strongly quenched by the binding of camptothecin derivatives to BSA. The quenching mechanism of the camptothecin derivatives was found to be static according to the Stern–Volmer equation. The binding constant and binding sites were confirmed by fluorescence quenching spectra. The thermodynamic parameters Gibbs free energy change (ΔG < 0), enthalpy change (ΔH > 0), and entropy change (ΔS > 0) implied that the interaction process was spontaneous and endothermic, and the interaction forces between camptothecin compounds and BSA were found to be hydrophobic. According to Föster non-radioactive energy transfer, the binding distances between 10-HCPT, TPT, and CPT8, and BSA were determined to be 1.73 nm, 1.63 nm, and 1.61 nm, respectively. The synchronous fluorescence spectra confirmed that the camptothecin compounds cannot cause conformational changes in BSA. A rapid and sensitive method for determining the binding interaction between water-soluble camptothecin derivatives and BSA was established based on these principles of fluorescence quenching.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We have studied the interaction between camptothecin derivatives and BSA. ► We have investigated the quenching mechanism involved. ► We have discussed the different substituent groups of camptothecin derivatives. ► Their effects on binding with BSA were studied. ► A rapid and sensitive method for determining the interaction was established.