Inhibition of colorectal tumor growth by the carbonate apatite-mediated doxorubicin delivery.

HCT116 cells were inoculated s.c. in the both left and right flanks of the mice (n = 6). When the diameter of tumors reached φ5 mm, Free-DOX at dose of 0.33 mg/kg/day or Apatite-DOX containing the same amount of DOX were administered by i.v. injection into the tail vein on days 0,1,2,7,8,9,14,15, and 16. Saline was administrated in case of control animals. Significant differences in the tumor volume were found between Control or Free-DOX and Apatite-DOX on day 12 and 19 (p<0.05). Data represent mean value ± SE (n = 6).