Folate-modified–chitosan-coated liposomes for tumor-targeted drug delivery

In this study, a folate-modified–chitosan-coated liposome (FCCL) was prepared for tumor-targeted drug delivery. The folate–chitosan conjugates were characterized using 1H NMR and infrared spectrum analysis. The properties of folate–chitosan-coated liposomes (FCCLs) were studied and compared with those of traditional liposomes and chitosan-coated liposomes (CCLs). FCCLs were spherical in shape with a classic core–shell structure. Compared with conventional liposomes, FCCLs had larger size (average diameter: 182.0 nm), higher zeta potential (10.1 mV), prolonged drug release behaviors (55.76 % after 24 h), and better physical stability when stored at 25 °C, all similar to the properties of CCLs. With fluorescein as a model drug, fluorescein-loaded liposomes, CCLs, and FCCLs were prepared and their tumor targeting ability was evaluated according to the in vitro cellular uptake of fluorescein loaded nanoparticles by MCF-7 and HUVEC cells. Results demonstrated that FCCLs had a significant higher uptake by folate receptor positive cells (MCF-7) as compared to traditional liposomes and CCLs, which indicated that the FCCLs were promising nano-carriers for tumor-targeted drug delivery.