Development of Lipid–Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles for Improving Oral Absorption of Enoxaparin

Enoxaparin, an anticoagulant that helps prevent the formation of blood clots, is administered parenterally. Here, we report the development and evaluation of lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNs) for the oral delivery of enoxaparin. The polymer poloxamer 407 (P407) was incorporated into lipid nanoparticles to form gel cores and ensure high encapsulation efficiency and the controlled release of enoxaparin. In vitro results indicated that 30% of P407 incorporation offered higher encapsulation efficiency and sustained the release of enoxaparin. Laser confocal scanning microscopy (LCSM) images showed that LPHNs could not only significantly improve the accumulation of enoxaparin in intestinal villi but also facilitate enoxaparin transport into the underlayer of intestinal epithelial cells. In vivo pharmacokinetic study results indicated that the oral bioavailability of enoxaparin was markedly increased about 6.8-fold by LPHNs. In addition, its therapeutic efficacy against pulmonary thromboembolism was improved 2.99-fold by LPHNs. Moreover, LPHNs exhibited excellent biocompatibility in the intestine. Overall, the LPHN is a promising delivery carrier to boost the oral absorption of enoxaparin.