PH-responsive and folate-coated liposomes encapsulating irinotecan as an alternative to improve efficacy of colorectal cancer treatment.

ABSTRACT: Irinotecan (IRN) is a semisynthetic derivative of camptothecin that acts as a topoisomerase I inhibitor. IRN is used worldwide for the treatment of several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, however its use can lead to serious adverse effects, as diarrhea and myelosuppression. Liposomes are widely used as drug delivery systems that can improve chemotherapeutic activity and decrease side effects. Liposomes can also be pH-sensitive to release its content preferentially in acidic environments, like tumors, and be surface-functionalized for targeting purposes. Herein, we developed a folate-coated pH-sensitive liposome as a drug delivery system for IRN to reach improved tumor therapy without potential adverse events. Liposomes were prepared containing IRN and characterized for partic

SUBMITTER: Nunes SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9052206 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature