Application of epirubicin containing albumin microspheres in the experimental therapy of breast cancer.

In the experiment we attempted to use albumin microspheres as carriers of cytostatics to acquire a higher drug concentration in the tumor for a longer time. It was expected that the efficiency of a treatment with a microsphere-entrapped epirubicin would be better than a treatment with microsphere-free drug. Albumin microspheres containing epirubicin were prepared by ultrasonic homogenization in oil and heat denaturation. In vitro experiments and the test for biological activity on human breast carcinoma cells implanted into Nu/Nu mice were carried out. Growth of tumors in the group of mice treated with microsphere-entrapped epirubicin was inhibited more effectively in comparison with growth of tumors in the group treated with microsphere-free drug. These results suggest that the change of the drug form can enhance antitumor effect of epirubicin and that albumin microspheres are suitable drug carriers.