Synthesis, characterization and mechanistic-insight into the anti-proliferative potential of PLGA-gemcitabine conjugate.

Gemcitabine, a nucleoside analogue, is used in the treatment of various solid tumors, however, its efficacy is limited by rapid metabolism by cytidine deaminase and fast kidney excretion. In this study, a polymeric conjugate of gemcitabine was prepared by covalent coupling with poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), in order to improve anticancer efficacy of the drug. The prepared conjugate was characterized by various analytical techniques including FTIR, NMR and mass spectroscopic analysis.