Aim: Docetaxel (DTX) loaded bio-compatible PLGA-PEG encapsulated zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZFNP) formulation was developed and evaluated against C6 glioma cells.
Methods: The ZFNP were characterised using XRD, FE-SEM, TEM, etc. A series of drug formulations were fabricated by conjugating hydrothermally synthesised ZFNP with DTX in a PLGA-PEG matrix and optimised for drug loading. FTIR and DLS analysis of the formulation along with in vitro drug release, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, and haemolytic effect were evaluated.
Results: Spherical, monodisperse, crystalline ZFNP with an average size of ∼28 nm were formed. The optimised formulation showed a hydrodynamic diameter of ∼147 nm, a surface charge of -34.8 mV, a drug loading of 6.9% (w/w) with prolonged drug release properties, and higher toxicity in C6 glioma cells compared to free DTX along with good internalisation and negligible haemolysis.
Conclusion: The results indicate ZFNP could be effectively used as nanodrug carrier for delivery of docetaxel to glioma cells.
Keywords: C6 glioma cells; Zinc ferrite nanoparticles; cellular uptake; cytotoxicity; docetaxel.