Enhancing bevacizumab efficacy in a colorectal tumor mice model using dextran-coated albumin nanoparticles

Bevacizumab is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that prevents the growth of new blood vessels and is currently employed in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, like other mAb, bevacizumab shows a limited penetration in the tumors, hampering their effectiveness and inducing adverse reactions. The aim of this work was to design and evaluate albumin-based nanoparticles, coated with dextran, as carriers for bevacizumab in order to promote its accumulation in the tumor and, thus, improve its antiangiogenic activity. These nanoparticles (B-NP-DEX50) displayed a mean size of about 250 nm and a payload of about 110 µg/mg. In a CRC mice model, these nanoparticles significantly reduced tumor growth and increased tumor doubling time, tumor necrosis and apoptosis more effectively than free bevacizumab. At the end of study, bevacizumab plasma levels were higher in the free drug group, while tumor levels were higher in the B-NP-DEX50 group (2.5-time higher). In line with this, the biodistribution study revealed that nanoparticles accumulated in the tumor core, potentially improving therapeutic efficacy while reducing systemic exposure. In summary, B-NP-DEX can be an adequate alternative to improve the therapeutic efficiency of biologically active molecules, offering a more specific biodistribution to the site of action.

Graphical abstract