Sequentially self-assembled polysaccharide-based nanocomplexes for combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy of breast cancer

Combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy has emerged as a promising anticancer strategy. Polysaccharide-based nanoparticles are being intensively explored as drug carriers for different forms of combination therapy. In this study, novel multifunctional polysaccharide-based nanocomplexes were prepared from aldehyde-functionalized hyaluronic acid and hydroxyethyl chitosan via sequential self-assembly method. Stable nanocomplexes were obtained through both Schiff's base bond and electrostatic interactions. Chemotherapeutics doxorubicin and pro-photosensitizer 5-aminolevulinic acid were chemically conjugated onto the nanocomplexes via Schiff base linkage. Anti-HER2 antibody as targeting moiety was decorated onto the surface of nanocomplexes. The obtained near-spherical shaped nanocomplexes had an average size of 140 nm and a zeta potential of −24.6 mV, and displayed pH-responsive surface charge reversal and drug release. Active targeting strategy significantly enhanced the cellular uptake of nanocomplexes and combined anticancer efficiency of chemo-photodynamic dual therapy in breast cancer MCF-7 cells. These results suggested that the nanocomplexes had great potential for targeted combination therapy of breast cancer.