Enhanced tumor targeting effects of a novel paclitaxel-loaded polymer: PEG-PCCL-modified magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles.

BACKGROUND: Multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) have been newly developed for tumor-targeted drug carriers. To address challenges including biocompatibility, stability, nontoxicity, and targeting efficiency, here we report the novel drug deliverer poly(ethylene glycol) carboxyl-poly(ɛ-caprolactone) modified MNP (PEG-PCCL-MNP) suitable for magnetic targeting based on our previous studies.

METHODS: Their in vitro characterization and cytotoxicity assessments, in vivo cytotoxicity assessments, and antitumor efficacy study were elaborately investigated.

RESULTS: The size of PEG-PCCL-MNP was 79.6 ± 0.945 nm. PEG-PCCL-MNP showed little in vitro or in vivo cytotoxicity and good biocompatibility, as well as effective tumor-specific cell targeting for drug delivery with the presence of external magnetic field.

DISCUSSION: PEG-PCCL-MNP is a potential candidate of biocompatible and tumor-specific targeting drug vehicle for hydrophobic drugs.