MAGNETIC NANOPARTICLE FORMULATIONS FOR TARGETED DELIVERY OF DRUGS TO LUNGS FOR TREATMENT OF PULMONARY DISEASES

摘要

Cytotoxic drugs such as irinotecan are used as first line therapy for a variety of cancers. Cytotoxic drugs are very effective at killing the tumour cells but have an undesirable side effect because they also destroy normal healthy cells. Secondly, even if the drugs enter a tissue they may be transported out by transport proteins in the cells thereby reducing their concentration overtime, resulting in decreased efficacy. One way to increase their efficacy and reduce the side effects is to selectively target them to the cancer containing organ/tissue. We have designed a novel nanoparticle that can selectively deliver irinotecan to the lungs. It also contains iron molecules so that the drug can be retained longer in the lungs by use of an external magnet. This nanoparticle can be used for treatment of lung cancer and other lung diseases.