Palmitoyl ascorbate liposomes and free ascorbic acid: comparison of anticancer therapeutic effects upon parenteral administration.

Purpose: To evaluate and compare anticancer therapeutic effect of palmitoyl ascorbate liposomes (PAL) and free ascorbic acid (AA).

Methods: Liposomes incorporating palmitoyl ascorbate (PA) were prepared and evaluated for PA content by HPLC. To elucidate mechanism of action of cell death in vitro, effect of various H(2)O(2) scavengers and metal chelators on PA-mediated cytotoxicity was studied.

Palmitoyl ascorbate-modified liposomes as nanoparticle platform for ascorbate-mediated cytotoxicity and paclitaxel co-delivery.

Ascorbate has multiple biological roles and chemical interactions, some of which differ between normal and cancerous tissues. Biological effects of ascorbate depend on concentration, route of exposure, and duration of exposure. High-dose ascorbate acts as a pro-oxidant in tissue fluids and delivers peroxide to tissues and fluids, which is then detoxified by erythrocytes and plasma catalase in normally perfused areas.