Anisamide-modified dual-responsive drug delivery system with MRI capacity for cancer targeting therapy

Abstract The targeting dual-responsive intelligent drug delivery system has been employed for cancer treatment as a positive strategy. Herein, we synthesized anisamide-modified molecule (10,10-NB-S-S-P-AA) and non-modified molecule (10,10-NB-S-S-P-OMe). The two molecules possessed UV/reduction dual-responsive property and biocompatibility. Targeted empty liposomes (GNSPA) or non-targeted empty liposomes (GNSPA) with UV/reduction dual responsiveness and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performance were prepared by mixing functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent (12,12-NB-DTPA-Gd) and 10,10-NB-S-S-P-AA or 10,10-NB-S-S-P-OMe. By studying drug encapsulation efficiency (DEE), MRI performance, and targeting activity of GNSPA liposomes with different ratios, 3:1 was determined as the optimum appropriate ratio. Empty and DOX (doxorubicin hydrochloride)-loaded liposomes were stable within 14 days, and exhibited a good UV/reduction dual-responsiveness. The cumulative drug release rate of GNSPAD reached up to 86.3% under the treatment of UV light and reducing agent (TCEP). Compared with non-targeted DOX-loaded liposomes (GNSPMD), GNSPAD accurately accumulated in cancer cells in vitro. The treatment of GNSPAD + UV showed a better anticancer effect and inhibition of cancer cell growth in vitro. These findings suggest that the anisamide-modified dual-responsive liposomes with MRI capacity can provide a powerful tool for cancer targeting therapy.