Preparation, in-vitro characterization and pharmacokinetic evaluation of Brij decorated doxorubicin liposomes as a potential nanocarrier for cancer therapy

The aim of current study was to investigate the effect of Brij decoration of liposomes on in vitro and in vivo characteristics of the nanocarriers. Two hydrophilic Brij surfactants (Brij 35 and Brij 78) with almost similar molecular weight but differing in acyl chain were incorporated into liposomal bilayers at two percentages (5% and 10%). Conventional liposomes (CL) containing egg phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol as well as Brij-enriched liposomal dispersions were prepared and characterized. In vivo pharmacokinetics of various liposomal formulations and drug solution (six groups) was studied after intravenous administration to rats. Conventional and Brij enriched DOX liposomes had small size within 82-97 nm and showed homogenous distribution (PDI < 0.1). Drug encapsulation was higher than 97% in all liposomes. The drug release profiles proved sustained DOX release from various formulations. Based on the results of in vivo studies, all five liposomes increased drug exposure and plasma concentration in comparison to free drug. However, DOX liposomes enriched with 5% of either Brij 35 or Brij 78 showed higher AUC values and lower clearance. Overall, Brij surfactants (5% of bilayer lipids) could potentially be used to improve liposomal pharmacokinetic parameters.