Abstract:
In the present study polymeric biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) of Etoposide (ETP) were prepared by modified spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion method using polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) as biodegradable matrix. The formulations were then characterized with respect to size and its surface morphology, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, in vitro drug release profile, sterility testing, stability studies and in vivo tissue distribution study. The formulated Etoposide-PLGA nanoparticles were spherical with a diameter ranging from 150 to 250 nm. Highest entrapment efficiency was found to be 73.83%. Highest cumulative percent drug release was observed with F-8 (83.50%) in 120 hrs. Formulation F-8 with optimal particle size, high entrapment efficiency and satisfactory in vitro release was selected for in vivo studies. The average targeting efficiency of drug loaded nanoparticles was found to be 27.23±0.126% of the injected dose in liver, 41.72±0.415% in lungs, 10.63±0.269% in kidney and 13.24±0.572% in spleen. The results revealed that, the drug loaded nanoparticles showed preferential drug targeting to lungs followed by liver, kidney and spleen. Stability studies indicated that 4°C is the most suitable temperature for storage of PLGA nanoparticles. This drug delivery is endowed with several exclusive advantages and hence holds potential for further research and clinical application.

Keywords: Etoposide, PLGA, Biodegradable Nanoparticles, In Vitro Release, In Vivo Study.