Formulation of Methotrexate Loaded Polymeric Zn-Nanoparticle: An Efficient Anti-Cancer Nano-Drug

The objective of this research was to formulate, characterize, interpret and study in-vitro drug release of methotrexate (MTX) polymeric nano-drug. Methotrexate is frequently used antineoplastic drug for chemotherapy. There are certain hindrances like increased toxicity problems and brief plasma life that have caused limitations to its usage. Zn/PEG nano-composite was prepared by sol gel formulation method. Zinc was preferred as it has importance in defense of host against cancer development by DNA repair of damaged cells and for maintaining DNA integrity of healthy host cell. PEG is an ideal and important drugcarrier for enhancing therapeutic value of antineoplastic drugs. MTX was loaded in Zn/PEG nano-composite to overcome toxic side effects and to improve plasma half-life of the loaded drug. The volume mean diameter (D) determined by particle size analyzer was less than 100nm. X-ray diffraction, FTIR and UV spectroscopy investigations manifested the successful loading of MTX in Zn/PEG nano-composite. The drug loading content was as high as 15 %. Percentage drug release profile showed that up to 18% MTX was released in 3 days from drug loaded nanoparticle.