Preparation and characterization of In Situ Gel of Gemcitabine Hydrochloride loaded Nanoparticles used for the treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

Objective: The objective of the current research work was to prepare polymeric nanoparticles of gemcitabine hydrochloride and then incorporate the drug-loaded nanoparticles into an in-situ gelling system to provide dual sustained release effect, whereby the duration of action, targeting action, dose as well as dose duration could be improved. Introduction: Gemcitabine hydrochloride is a first line therapy drug for the treatment of pancreatic cancer, which competes with new generations in the market, with its potential activity. The major physicochemical constraints and pharmacokinetics of gemcitabine hydrochloride such as poor permeability, less half-life, high dose has initiated many researchers to develop diverse modified release dosage forms. Materials and Methods: Firstly, development of nanoparticles using chitosan and sodium TPP by ionic gelation method followed by dispersion of the suspended nanoparticles into thermo sensitive in situ gelling system of pluronic F-127 with carbopol 934. Results and Discussion: The characterization and evaluation of the nanoparticles and its sol-gel system performed through particle size, zeta potential, TEM, XRD, DSC and other rheological properties like viscosity, gelation temperature and time. The % cumulative drug from optimized PNP's (CTN7) and in situ gelling system (GIS5) was found to be 72% and 47% respectively after 24 hours. Conclusion: The development of gemcitabine hydrochloride nanoparticles incorporated into gel, used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer was unique and promising system for site specific dual sustained action.