Targeted dextran-b-poly(ε-caprolactone) micelles for cancer treatments

In this study, targeted drug deliveries with excellent biocompatibility have been investigated to improve the efficacy and reduce the systemic toxicity of drugs. First, amphiphilic dextran-b-poly(ε-caprolactone) (Dex-PCL) copolymers were synthesized by a "click" reaction between α-alkyne terminated dextran and azido-terminated poly(ε-caprolactone). Then, the targeted molecules, such as folic acid and galactose, were conjugated to Dex-PCL. To verify their feasibility as drug delivery vehicles, DOX was loaded into Dex-PCL micelles with or without a targeted molecule. The in vitro release of DOX from DOX-loaded micelles demonstrated that there was a continuous release after burst release in the first 6 h. The cell viability assay of DOX-loaded micelles conjugated with targeting molecules against HeLa and HepG2 cells was investigated. Targeted DOX-loaded micelles showed significant bindings with tumor cells and efficient inhibition to corresponding targeted cells. Therefore, targeted DOX-loaded micelles provided an efficient drug delivery platform for the inhibition of cancer cells.