Reducing toxicity and enhancing efficacy of doxorubicin by liposomal doxorubicin and aprepitant in breast cancer.

This study investigates the efficacy and toxicity profiles of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (Doxil) compared to conventional doxorubicin. Additionally, it evaluates the potential of combination therapy involving Doxil and doxorubicin with aprepitant, an FDA-approved agent for the management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Using a mouse model induced with 4T1 breast cancer cells, tumor size, and weight were assessed following treatment with either single doses or combination therapies. The study also examined oxidative and antioxidant stress markers in tumor, liver, and cardiac tissues, complemented by histopathological analysis of these tissues using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results indicated that prepared liposomal doxorubicin significantly enhanced antitumor efficacy, as evidenced by decreased tumor size and weight. Moreover, it positively influenced oxidative stress markers, promoting apoptosis in tumor tissues. Notably, Doxil also reduced adverse effects compared to standard doxorubicin, as indicated by lower oxidative stress levels and increased antioxidant activity in both cardiac and liver tissues. The combined administration of doxorubicin and aprepitant further improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects. Consequently, the formulation of doxorubicin in liposomes and aprepitant-based combination therapy represents a promising strategy for enhancing treatment effectiveness while minimizing adverse effects in breast cancer management.