Preparation of digoxin loaded PLGA nanoparticles and its inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis

Abstract

Objective To prepare digoxin loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, so as to improve bioavailability and reduce toxic side effects of digoxin. Methods The approach for determining loading capacity and encapsulating efficiency of digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles was established based on high-performance liquid chromatography method. The digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles were prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation method. The preparation conditions were optimized by single factor experiments. The antitumor activities of digoxin and the digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles were assessed by methyl thiazol tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Results The results of single factor experiments indicated that the optimal condition, with the standard of particle size, is as follow: PLGA 30 mg, digoxin 2 mg, dichloromethane 3 ml, polyvinyl alcohol 0.5%, and ultrasound power 200 W. By using the optimal condition, the diameter of the prepared digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles was approximately 231 nm, and the drug loading capacity and encapsulating efficiency of digoxin were 74.61% and 5.37% respectively. It was found that the anticancer activity of the digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles was higher than that of digoxin. Conclusions The digoxin-PLGA nanoparticles, prepared with PLGA as drug delivery material, can enhance the anti-tumor effect of digoxin. Key words: Digoxin; PLGA; Nanoparticles; Anticancer; Emulsion solvent evaporation