Engineering FA‐Modified Lipid–Polymer Nanocapsules for the Selective Delivery of Paclitaxel and Doxorubicin in Breast Cancer Treatment
Abstract Combining synthetic and natural polymers to increase stability, biocompatibility, and targeted drug delivery, lipid–polymer hybrid nanocapsules (LPHNCs) mark a development in cancer treatment. Notably, LPHNCs reduce long‐term toxicity through biodegradable components. In this study, nanocapsules (NCs) with doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PTX) were developed to specifically target breast cancer cells with folate receptors. For in vitro targeting studies, the NCs were functionalized with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and folic acid (FA). This study discusses the differential characteristics of PTX inside the lipophilic matrix and DOX within the hydrophobic polymeric core to maximize bioavailability and therapeutic precision via the single encapsulation of PTX and DOX. The structural and chemical characteristics of the NCs were investigated via DLS, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, PL spectroscopy, FESEM, and TEM. Moreover, the characteristics of encapsulation, release, and cytotoxicity were examined. The biological functioning was evaluated via MTT assays, revealing a concentration‐ and time‐dependent cytotoxic reaction. From 24 to 48 h, the IC 50 values showed a twofold drop, suggesting a stronger pharmacodynamic effect. Both preparations remained biocompatible at sub‐cytotoxin levels (<20 µg/mL). These findings highlight the opportunities of LPHNCs as a flexible nanoplatform to optimize solubility, bioavailability, and controlled release for improved oncological usage.
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