Superparamagnetic Hybrid Nanospheres Based on Chitosan Obtained by Double Crosslinking in a Reverse Emulsion for Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Nowadays, the Magnetically Targeted Drug Delivery System (MTDDS) is among the most attractive and promising strategies for delivering drugs to the target site. The present study aimed to obtain a biopolymer–magnetite–drug nanosystem via a double crosslinking (ionic and covalent) technique in reverse emulsion, which ensures the mechanical stability of the polymer support in the form of original hybrid nanospheres (NSMs) loaded with biologically active principles (the 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)) as a potential treatment for cancer. Obtained NSMs were characterized in terms of structure (FT-IR), size (DLS), morphology (SEM), swelling, and 5-FU entrapment/release properties, which were dependent on the synthesis parameters (polymer concentration, dispersion speed, and amount of ionic crosslinking agent). SEM analysis results revealed that NSMs presented a spherical shape and are homogeneous and separated. Moreover, NSMs’ ability to load/release 5-FU was tested in vitro, the results confirming, as expected, their dependence on the varied synthesis process and NSM swelling ability in physiological liquids. The drug transport mechanism through the polymer matrix of its release is the Fickian type. The morphological, bio-material characteristics and the ability to include and release an antitumor drug highlight the utility of the NSMs obtained for targeting and treating some tumor diseases.

Keywords

• chitosan
• superparamagnetic hybrid nanospheres
• double crosslinking
• reverse emulsion
• cancer treatment