Toward a doxorubicin-loaded bioinspired bone cement for the localized treatment of osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma represents the second most common cause of death in children and young adults. No biomaterial allowing local drug delivery has been specifically developed. However, a biocompatible bioactive implantable material could prevent some amputations, and the local release of an antitumor agent could limit risks of relapse and metastasis. We propose a proof of concept of a self-setting paste combining amorphous calcium phosphate and doxorubicin-loaded particles of bone-like carbonated nanocrystalline apatite, as a means of local release. The cement formulation and doping, first with folic acid and then with doxorubicin, was successful. Its physicochemistry was scrutinized. Preliminary data on an invasive osteosarcoma rat model suggest a limiting effect on metastatic events in the lungs without signs of toxicity.