Polymeric Nanoparticles Enhance the Aqueous Solubility and Therapeutic Delivery of Docetaxel

This study aimed to develop docetaxel (DTX)-loaded polymeric nanoparticles based on chitosan and its combinations with β-cyclodextrin or Poloxamer 188 to improve the dissolution profile of DTX. Three nanoparticle groups were formulated using the ionic gelation method: chitosan-based (F1CS, F2CS, F3CS), chitosan/β-cyclodextrin-based (F1βCS, F2βCS, F3βCS), and chitosan/Poloxamer 188-based (F1PCS, F2PCS, F3PCS). The compatibility between DTX and the formulation components was confirmed using FTIR. Nanoparticle morphology was examined via SEM, and the physical state of the drug was analyzed using DSC and TGA. In vitro drug release was determined using the dialysis bag method. Entrapment efficiency ranged from 55.90 to 82.07% for chitosan-based nanoparticles, 80.80% to 95.13% for β-cyclodextrin-chitosan nanoparticles, and 86.36% to 98.90% for Poloxamer 188-chitosan nanoparticles. SEM analysis showed spherical morphology, and DSC confirmed the amorphous state of DTX. The optimized formulation (F3PCS) demonstrated a sustained release profile. The findings suggest that chitosan-based nanoparticles, combined with β-cyclodextrin and Poloxamer 188, provide a promising approach for enhancing the solubility and bioavailability of DTX.