Abstract:
Vincristine sulfate (VIN) is commonly employed as a cytotoxic agent in the treatment of hematological malignancies, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). However, its maximum therapeutic benefits have been hindered due to the dose-dependent neurotoxic effects it can induce, which traditionally manifest as autonomic and peripheral sensory-motor neuropathy. The innovative approach aimed to address VIN's neurotoxic limitations while preserving its therapeutic efficacy in combating hematological malignancies, including ALL. The liposomes were prepared using the reverse-phase evaporation method. This method involved the encapsulation of VIN within liposomes through a controlled evaporation process. Secondly, PEGylated liposomes were synthesized through PEGylation. The liposomes were examined using scanning electron spectroscopy, revealing a smooth and spherical surface morphology. The particle size of the liposomes ranged from 90±0.5 to 120±0.4 nm. The encapsulation efficiency of the liposomes was found to be 77.24% and the highest drug release reached 95% over 50 hours. Cytotoxicity studies demonstrated that the liposomal formulation exhibited a non-toxic nature. Furthermore, in an in-vivo cellular uptake study, the PEGylated liposomes showed efficient accumulation within tumor cells. The liposomal formulation demonstrated superior effectiveness in treating ALL compared to the pure form of the drug.
Keywords:
Toxicity
,
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia
,
liposomes
,
Vincristine
,
PEGylation