Minicapsules encapsulating nanoparticles for targeting, apoptosis induction and treatment of colon cancer.

Cancer therapies are aimed at eliminating the rapidly growing tumor cells by surgery and radiotherapy. The present therapies are only fruitful in early identified cases. The present study involves the preparation and characterization of eudragit S100-coated mini-capsules filled with chitosan nanoparticles-unconjugated and folic acid (FA)-conjugated encapsulating caspase 3 activator (7-hydroxystaurosporine). The formulated nanoparticles were compared for the cancer targeting and curing ability of the same by pre-investigation through drug release in organ-imitated fluids and ex vivo studies (cell viability, DNA fragmentation, caspase 3 activity), and then its confirmation through in vivo studies (tumor regression and distribution). The prepared nanoparticles were nearly spherical in shape, having positive zeta potential. From the cell line studies, it can be concluded that both the conjugated formulations showed better uptake, apoptosis, caspase 3 activation and DNA fragmentation. Stability study was performed according to ICH guidelines and formulation stored at 5° ± 3 °C was found to be most stable. The in vivo studies also supported the findings and showed better comprehensive residence time (23.61 ± 1.75 h), tumor distribution profile than UCN 01 alone. The results of in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo studies lead to the conclusion that the coated minicapsules specifically deliver the drug in the colon showing high therapeutic value and low side effects.