Magnetic Submicron Systems Loaded with Chemotherapeutic Agent (Paclitaxel) for Breast Cancer Therapy

Magnetic submicron systems based on N-palmitoyl chitosan, magnetite and chemotherapeutic agent (Paclitaxel) have been prepared via ionic gelation mechanism combined with ultrasonication technique. Dynamic light scattering results showed that magnetic particles size, measured in aqueous medium is around 300 nm and the structures have positive surface charge given by the non-substituted amino groups of chitosan. In vitro release studies have shown the ability of magnetic particles to release the chemotherapeutic drug in a controlled manner over 24 h. It has been observed a more pronounced drug release within slightly acidic media (pH = 6.8) as a result of the higher polymer swelling and degradation.