Adenosine conjugated lipidic nanoparticles for enhanced tumor targeting

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Nanoparticle drug delivery faces challenges in tumor targeting and penetration.
• Targeted delivery of anti-cancer agents enhances therapeutic index compared to untargeted drugs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate adenosine (ADN) for targeting solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) to adenosine receptor-overexpressing cancer cells (MCF-7 and DU-145).
• To evaluate the efficacy of ADN-conjugated SLN loaded with docetaxel (DTX) for breast and prostate cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Docetaxel (DTX) loaded SLN were prepared and surface modified with adenosine (ADN) via carbodiimide coupling.
• Characterization included dynamic light scattering, DSC, TEM, and IR spectroscopy.
• In vitro cytotoxicity, cell uptake, and pharmacokinetic studies were performed.

Main Results:

• ADN-conjugated SLN demonstrated sustained drug release and significantly higher cytotoxicity compared to free DTX and unconjugated SLN.
• IC50 values were notably lower for ADN-conjugated SLN in both MCF-7 and DU-145 cell lines.
• Receptor-mediated endocytosis via adenosine receptors was confirmed, and pharmacokinetic studies showed improved parameters.

Conclusions:

• Adenosine (ADN) is a potential ligand for targeting solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) to breast and prostate cancers.
• ADN-conjugated SLN represent an efficient drug delivery vehicle for enhanced cancer therapy.
• This targeted approach improves drug efficacy and pharmacokinetic profiles.