Microspheres for Targeting an Alkaloidal Anticancer Drug in Colon Cancer

The aim of the present study is to develop a multiparticulate system containing pectin microspheres for the colon targeted delivery of Vincristine Sulphate for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. This work combines pHdependent solubility of shellac polymers and microbial degradability of pectin polymers. The yield of preparation and the encapsulation efficiencies were high for all pectin microspheres. Shellac coating of pectin microspheres was performed by oil-in-oil solvent evaporation method using coat: core ratio (5:1). Microspheres were evaluated for surface morphology particle size and size distribution, percentage drug entrapment, and in vitro drug release in simulated gastrointestinal fluids (SGF). The release profile of Vincristine Sulphate from shellac-coated pectin microspheres was pH dependent. In acidic medium, the release rate was much slower; however the drug was released quickly at pH 7.4. It is concluded from the present investigation that Shellac-coated pectin microspheres are promising controlled release carriers for colon-targeted delivery of Vincristine Sulphate.