Assessment of DNA damage in Ehlrich carcinoma after treatment with doxorubicin encapsulated in nanoscales thermosensitive liposomes in combination with localized hyperthermia

Abstract

Nanoscales thermosensitive liposomes (TSL) composed of synthetic lipids (dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, and distearoylphosphatidylcholine), were used for doxorubicin encapsulation with 70% encapsulated efficiency. The liposomes were characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy and turbidity method. Additionally, the liposomes exhibited a significant release of doxorubicin (Dox) by 60% within 5 min at 42°C. To assess the therapeutic efficacy of Dox in combination with hyperthermia, Dox free and encapsulated TSL were administered directly to Ehrlich tumor bearing mice at 1 mg/kg dose. Immediately after the drug administration, hyperthermia was applied to mention the temperature inside the tumor site at 42°C either for 5 min and 30 min. The results indicate a significant increase in the percent of apoptotic and necrotic cells in the treated group. Moreover, disrupts the integrity and the amount of intact DNA in tumor cells. In conclusion, Dox and hyperthermia may serve as a useful targeted drug delivery system for management of Ehrlich carcinoma.