Astragalus Polysaccharide Liposomes for an Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy in Treating Chemotherapy-Induced Anemia: Preparation and Evaluation

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to prepare an astragalus polysaccharide liposome formulation to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of astragalus polysaccharide in treating chemotherapy-induced anemia. SIGNIFICANCE: The significance of this study lies in its ability to increase the drug exposure of astragalus polysaccharides in bone marrow tissue, thereby improving their efficacy in treating chemotherapy-induced anemia. METHODS: Liposomes were prepared using the thin-film dispersion method, and their characteristics were verified. Subsequently, pharmacokinetic studies were conducted using animal experiments to calculate relevant pharmacokinetic parameters and to compare the pharmacodynamics of astragalus polysaccharide liposomes with free polysaccharides. RESULTS: Data showed that the prepared astragalus polysaccharide liposome had a particle size of 291.23 ± 19.63 nm, a zeta potential of -37.75 ± 0.35 mV, and a polydispersity index of 0.24 ± 0.03, indicating good stability and biocompatibility. By comparing the pharmacokinetic parameters of astragalus polysaccharides and their liposomes, and analyzing the concentration changes in plasma and bone marrow, it was found that liposomes could increase the drug concentration in bone marrow. Animal experiments indicated that astragalus polysaccharide liposomes could enhance the anti-chemotherapy anemia effects of astragalus polysaccharides from multiple dimensions, including blood routine, organ index, oxidative stress factors, cell cycle, and apoptosis. CONCLUSION: Liposome-based formulations can prolong drug circulation time and thereby enhance the passive distribution and exposure of astragalus polysaccharides in the bone marrow, strengthening their anti-chemotherapy anemia effect.