A novel microfluidic liposomal formulation for the delivery of the SN-38 camptothecin: characterization and in vitro assessment of its cytotoxic effect on two tumor cell lines

摘要

PurposeIrinotecan (CPT-11) and SN-38 – its active metabolite – are alkaloid-derived topoisomerase I interactive compounds widely used in various cancer therapy protocols. To solve the problems associated with the instability of their lactone ring at physiological pH and with the extreme insolubility of SN-38, the development of delivery carriers (eg, liposomes) has been considered a subject of unquestionable medical interest. This article focuses on the development of an alternative protocol to the classical lipid-film hydration procedures to obtain a pharmaceutical formulation for SN-38.