Development of NAMI-A-loaded PLGA-mPEG Nanoparticles:Physicochemical Characterization, in vitro Drug Release and in vivo Antitumor Efficacy

NAMI-A[imidazolium trans-tetrachloro(dimethylsulfoxide)imidazoleruthenium(Ⅲ)] shows extraordinary activities against metastatic tumors. However, the hydrolysis of NAMI-A to produce dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO) could reduce anti-metastatic activity. To enhance the circulation time and the anti-metastatic effect of NAMI-A, NAMI-A-loaded nanoparticles were prepared by the double emulsion method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology, laser light scattering for size and zeta potential for surface charges. Controlled release of NAMI-A was observed in a sustained manner. Compared with free NAMI-A, NAMI-A-loaded nanoparticles exhibited superior antitumor effect by delaying tumor growth in T739 mice. PLGA-mPEG nanoparticles are promising for further studies as drug delivery carriers.