Glutathione-responsive PLGA nanocomplex for dual delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin to overcome tumor multidrug resistance

Aim: This work aims to develop an injectable nano-drug delivery system to overcome tumor multidrug resistance (MDR). Methods: A drug delivery nanoplatform based on PEGylated PLGA with glutathione (GSH) responsivity was constructed for dual delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin (termed DCNP), and its MDR reversal efficiency was studied in vitro and in vivo. Results: The DCNPs exhibited a rapid drug release profile under high GSH concentration and could enhance the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of doxorubicin to MDR cancer cells. Moreover, the DCNPs showed better biocompatibility, longer blood circulation and enhanced antitumor efficiency compared with free drugs. Conclusion: The GSH-responsive nanocarrier is believed to be a promising candidate for overcoming tumor MDR.