Evaluation of the effects of methotrexate released from polymeric implants in solid Ehrlich tumor

Abstract

In this study, the effects of the controlled and sustained release of methotrexate from poly(ɛ-caprolactone) implants were evaluated in the solid Ehrlich tumor. The drug locally leached from the implantable devices was capable of reducing the tumor growth and the necrotic areas of the tumor site. Furthermore, the methotrexate exerted its anti-tumor effect probably by the recruitment of neutrophils at the tumor site, which assisted in modulating the growth of the tumor. The polymeric implants containing methotrexate could be a chemotherapic alternative to treat locally solid tumors with lower systemic side effects.

Keywords: Drug delivery systems; Polymeric implants containing methotrexate; Solid Ehrlich tumor.