PPSu-PEG Copolymers and their Application in the Preparation of Cisplatin-loaded Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles based on poly(propylene succinate) copolymers with poly(ethyleneglycol) (PPSu-PEG) were prepared and evaluated in vitro for their potential for a more selective delivery of cisplatin to tumors using local hyperthermia. The copolymers were synthesized through one-pot melt-polymerization under vacuum. Their thermal properties were investigated using DSC. PPSu-PEG nanoparticles loaded with cisplatin were prepared by a double emulsion method. Their colloidal stability, drug release properties, and in vitro anticancer activity were assessed. The m. p. of the synthesized PPSu-PEG copolymers ranged between 40-45 degrees C. The PPSu-PEG nanoparticles were stable in aqueous media with high salt concentrations. The average size of the different compositions of the PPSu-PEG nanoparticles loaded with cisplatin ranged between 77 and 126 nm and all compositions exhibited low negative zeta-potential values. The PPSU-PEG/cisplatin nanoparticles released cisplatin much faster at 42 degrees C than at 37 degrees C and exhibited comparable to free cisplatin cytotoxicity against HT 29 cells, which was increased when the incubation temperature was increased from 37 degrees C to 42 degrees C. The results justify further investigation of the potential of PPSu-PEG copolymers for the development of temperature-sensitive, targetable cisplatin nanocarriers.