Targeted sonocatalytic cancer cell injury using avidin-conjugated titanium dioxide nanoparticles

Kazuaki Ninomiya1, Aya Fukuda2, Chiaki Ogino3

  • 1Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan.

Insights

Avidin-modified titanium dioxide nanoparticles selectively target cancer cells. Ultrasound activation generates hydroxyl radicals, reducing cancer cell viability by 32% within 96 hours.

Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) offers a non-invasive approach for cancer treatment.
  • Targeted drug delivery systems are crucial for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and minimizing side effects.
  • Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles have shown potential in SDT due to their ability to generate reactive oxygen species.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of avidin-modified TiO2 nanoparticles in targeted sonodynamic therapy for breast cancer cells.
  • To investigate the selective uptake of these nanoparticles by cancer cells compared to normal cells.
  • To assess the impact of TiO2/Ultrasound (US) treatment on cancer cell viability and proliferation.

Main Methods:

  • Avidin protein was used to modify titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles for enhanced cellular targeting.
  • The selective uptake of avidin-TiO2 nanoparticles by MCF-7 breast cancer cells and human mammary epithelial cells was quantified.
  • Cells incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles were exposed to 1-MHz ultrasound (0.1 W/cm(2), 30 s).
  • Cell viability was monitored for up to 96 hours post-treatment.

Main Results:

  • Avidin-modified TiO2 nanoparticles demonstrated preferential uptake by MCF-7 cancer cells (over 80%) compared to normal breast cells (30%).
  • TiO2/US treatment led to a significant decline in viable cancer cell concentration.
  • Viable cell concentration decreased to 68% of the control group at 96 hours post-treatment, with no apparent cell injury observed within the first 24 hours.

Conclusions:

  • Avidin-modified TiO2 nanoparticles serve as an effective targeted delivery system for sonodynamic therapy.
  • The TiO2/US treatment exhibits significant cancer cell growth inhibition.
  • This targeted nanomedicine approach holds promise for future breast cancer treatment strategies.