Preparation of redox responsive modified xanthan gum nanoparticles and the drug controlled release

A new kind of redox responsive nanoparticles was prepared through the modification and crosslinking reaction of xanthan gum. The nanoparticles had regular spherical shapes with diameters ranging from 110 to 180 nm. The nanoparticles showed good redox responsiveness. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded in the nanoparticles via ionic interaction with SO3-, for increasing the drug loading rate and avoiding drug leakage. The in vitro drug release could be controlled by pH and reduction conditions simulated to the internal environment of tumor cells. The nanoparticles were biocompatible and could be potentially applied as anti-cancer drug vehicles for targeted release.