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Published on: May 22, 2020
Using targeted magnetic arsenic trioxide nanoparticles for osteosarcoma treatment
Xue-Song Li1, Wei-Qing Li, Wen-Bo Wang
1Department of Orthopedics, First Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China. 19x9s9@126.com
Abstract:
The present study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of the magnetic arsenic trioxide (ATO) nanoparticles against osteosarcoma in vivo tumor models. ATO was incorporated in the magnetic nanoparticles and encapsulated by poly lactic acid. Human MG-63 osteosarcoma cells were injected subcutaneously into the nude mice. After 15 days, the mice were randomly assigned to the four groups (n=6 mice): group 1: control, saline only (10 mL kg(-1) day(-1), intravenously (i.v.)); group 2: ATO alone (5 mg kg(-1) day(-1), i.v.); group 3: magnetic ATO nanoparticles at a dose equivalent to 50% of the ATO alone, with an external magnetic field on the tumor; group 4: CDDP, cisplatin (5 mg kg(-1) day(-1), i.v.). The mice were sacrificed after 21 days. In vitro release profiles showed that ATO was released rapidly from the nanoparticles. The magnetic ATO evaluation indicated that the magnetic nanoparticles might localize under the magnet in vivo. The tumor volume examination showed that the treatment with magnetic ATO nanoparticles achieved the similar inhibition effect on osteosarcoma as that of CDDP or ATO alone. Electron microscopic features typical of apoptosis were identified in the tumor tissue with the three-drug treatment. This "magnetic ATO targeting" offers an opportunity to treat osteosarcoma with a lower dose.
Insights
Magnetic arsenic trioxide (ATO) nanoparticles show therapeutic potential against osteosarcoma. This targeted delivery method may enable lower therapeutic doses for effective cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Osteosarcoma is a primary bone malignancy with limited effective treatment options.
- Arsenic trioxide (ATO) has shown anti-cancer properties but faces challenges in targeted delivery and toxicity.
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems offer potential for enhanced therapeutic efficacy and reduced side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of magnetic arsenic trioxide (ATO) nanoparticles against osteosarcoma in an in vivo tumor model.
- To evaluate the potential of magnetic targeting for localized drug delivery of ATO.
- To compare the efficacy of magnetic ATO nanoparticles with conventional ATO and cisplatin treatments.
Main Methods:
- Arsenic trioxide (ATO) was incorporated into magnetic nanoparticles and encapsulated with poly lactic acid.
- Human MG-63 osteosarcoma cells were xenografted into nude mice.
- Mice were treated with saline, ATO alone, magnetic ATO nanoparticles (with external magnetic field), or cisplatin (CDDP).
- Tumor volume, in vitro release profiles, and in vivo magnetic localization were assessed.
- Tumor tissues were analyzed for apoptosis using electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- In vitro studies indicated rapid release of ATO from nanoparticles.
- Magnetic ATO nanoparticles demonstrated potential for in vivo magnetic localization.
- Magnetic ATO nanoparticles achieved comparable osteosarcoma inhibition to ATO alone and cisplatin.
- Apoptotic features were observed in tumor tissues from all treatment groups except the control.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic ATO nanoparticles represent a promising strategy for osteosarcoma treatment.
- Targeted delivery using magnetic fields may allow for reduced therapeutic dosage of ATO.
- This approach offers a potential avenue for more effective and potentially less toxic osteosarcoma therapy.

