Folate-decorated poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyoctanoate) nanoparticles for targeting delivery: optimization and in vivo antitumor activity

AbstractContext: Doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded folate-targeted poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyoctanoate) [P(HB-HO)] nanoparticles [DOX/FA-PEG-P(HB-HO) NPs] have potential application in clinical treatments for cervical cancer due to specific affinity of folate and folate receptor in HeLa cells.Objective: The aim of this study was to develop an optimized formulation for DOX/FA-PEG-P(HB-HO) NPs, and investigate the targeting and efficacies of the nanoparticles.Materials and methods: DOX/FA-PEG-P(HB-HO) NPs were prepared by W1/O/W2 solvent extraction/evaporation method, and an orthogonal experimental design [L9 (34)] was applied to establish the optimum conditions. The physico–chemical characteristics, microscopic observation and in vivo antitumor study of the nanoparticles were evaluated.Results: The optimum formulation was obtained with DOX 10% (w/v), FA-PEG-P(HB-HO) 6.5% (w/v), PVA 3%(w/v) and oil phase/internal water phase volume ratio of 3/1. The size distribution, drug loading and encapsulation efficien...