Therapeutic efficacy of folate receptor-targeted amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles as a novel vehicle for paclitaxel delivery in breast cancer

Purpose: The aim of this study is to test folate-conjugated cyclodextrin nanoparticles (FCD-1 and FCD-2) as a vehicle for reducing toxicity and increasing the antitumor efficacy of paclitaxel especially for metastatic breast cancer. Methods: For the evaluation of PCX-loaded FCD nanoparticles, animal studies were realised in terms of survival rate, tumour size, weight change, metastazis and histopathological examination. Results: FCD-1 displayed significant advantages such as efficient targeting of folate receptor positive breast cancer cells and having considerably lower toxicity compared to that of Cremophor^®. When loaded with paclitaxel, FCD-1 nanoparticles, which have smaller particle size, neutral zeta potential, high encapsulation efficiency and better loading capacity for controlled release, emerged as an effective formulation in terms of cytotoxicity and high cellular uptake. In an experimental breast cancer model, anticancer activity of these nanoparticles were compatible with that of paclitaxel in Cremophor^® however repeated administrations of FCD-1 nanoparticles were better tolerated by the animals. These nanoparticles were able to localise in tumour site. Both paclitaxel-loaded FCD-1 and FCD-2 significantly reduced tumour burden while FCD-1 significantly improved the survival. Conclusions: Folate-conjugated amphiphilic cyclodextrin nanoparticles can be considered as promising Cremophor^®-free, low-toxicity and efficient active drug delivery systems for paclitaxel.