In this work, a novel pH-sensitive drug delivery system based on modified dextrin coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), DOX@MSN-DDA-CL, are prepared. The dextrin grafting on the surface of MSNs is oxidized by KIO4 to obtain dextrin dialdehyde, which is then cross-linked by tetraethylenepentamine through a pH-sensitive Schiff's base. Under physiological conditions, the cross-linked dextrin dialdehyde blocks the pores to prevent premature release of model drug doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX). In the weak acidic environment, pH 6.0 in this work, the Schiff's base can be hydrolyzed and released the drug. The in vitro drug release studies at different pHs prove the pH-sensitivity of DOX@MSN-DDA-CL. The cytotoxicity and cell internalization behavior are also investigated in detail. In vivo tissue distribution and pharmacokinetics with a H22-bearing mouse animal mode are also studied, prove that DOX@MSN-DDA-CL has a longer retention time than that of pure DOX and can accumulate in tumor region via enhanced permeation and retention and nanomaterials-induced endothelial cell leakiness effects. In conclusion, the pH-sensitive modified dextrin/MSNs complex drug delivery system has a great potential for cancer therapy.
Keywords: Controlled release; Mesoporous silica nanoparticles; Modified dextrin.
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