Doxorubicin-loaded zein in situ gel for interstitial chemotherapy of colorectal cancer

The aim of this research was to evaluate doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded zein in situ gels, a new drug delivery system in which a liquid state drug can be transformed into semi-solid after intratumoral injection. In vitro release of DOX-loaded zein was investigated and the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy of these DOX-loaded zein formulations were investigated using BALB/c nude tumor-bearing mice. In vitro release of DOX from the gels extended up to 7 days. Efficient accumulation of DOX in the tumor with lower drug concentration in blood and normal organs was obtained resulting in effective inhibition of tumor growth and fewer off-target side effects. In conclusion, a DOX-loaded in situ gel was developed with sustained release, enhanced anti-cancer efficacy for colorectal cancer in vivo, and especially with reduced off-target side effects.