Development of Magnetic Based Nano Carrier Formulation of Few Drugs and their Evaluation for Targeted Drug Delivery in Breast Cancer

Abstract

Cancer, characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells, presents significant challenges in treatment. This study explores the formulation, characterization, and biocompatibility of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) conjugated with Docetaxel (DCX) and Tamoxifen Citrate (TMX) for targeted cancer therapy. The MNPs were synthesized using a co-precipitation method, functionalized with arginine, and conjugated with DCX and TMX through covalent bonds. Various analytical techniques, including FTIR, XRD, TEM, VSM, and DLS, were employed to characterize the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles. The FTIR spectra confirmed the successful functionalization and conjugation processes. XRD patterns and TEM images demonstrated the crystalline structure and uniform size distribution of the nanoparticles, with mean diameters of 26.99 nm for Fe-Arg-DCX and 32.15 nm for Fe-Arg-TMX. VSM analysis revealed a reduction in magnetization values post- functionalization, indicating successful surface modification. Thermal analysis through TGA and DSC showed the stability of the conjugated nanoparticles. Biocompatibility was assessed via hemolysis and cell viability assays. The hemolysis assay indicated minimal hemolytic activity, confirming excellent blood compatibility. In vitro cytotoxicity studies using HFF-2, MCF-7, and 4T1 cell lines demonstrated that Fe-Arg-DCX and Fe-Arg-TMX nanoparticles exhibited superior inhibitory effects on cancer cells compared to free drugs. The IC50 values of the conjugated nanoparticles were significantly lower, highlighting their enhanced efficacy. Drug release studies under lysosomal conditions revealed a sustained release profile, with the presence of proteinase K enzyme accelerating the release of DCX and TMX. newline