Chemosensitizer and docetaxel-loaded albumin nanoparticle: overcoming drug resistance and improving therapeutic efficacy.

AIM: Investigated strategy exploits the utilization of quercetin as a chemosensitizer for docetaxel (DTX), which was incorporated into albumin nanoparticles (NPs; bovine serum albumin NPs [BSA-NPs]). MATERIAL & METHODS: BSA-NPs containing both drugs were optimized, extensively characterized for different quality attributes and performance was investigated using series of in vitro and in vivo investigations. RESULTS: Co-encapsulated BSA-NPs exhibited size: 209.26 ± 9.84 nm, polydispersibility index: 0.184 ± 0.05 and good entrapment efficiency (∼75% for DTX and ∼68% for quercetin). Higher in vitro cytotoxicity, cell uptake and apoptosis were achieved in MCF-7 cell line. Similarly, higher P-glycoprotein efflux inhibition was observed in MDA-MB-231. About 2.5-fold increase in bioavailability of DTX was achieved with improved antitumor efficacy and reduced in vivo toxicity. CONCLUSION: Developed BSA-NPs provide an effective and safer alternative approach using co-delivery of chemosensitizer.