Aptamer-functionalized DNA microgels: a strategy towards selective anticancer therapeutic systems

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Conventional drug delivery systems often lack specificity, leading to off-target effects.
• Stimuli-responsive materials offer enhanced control over drug release.
• DNA nanotechnology provides precise structural control and programmability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct novel DNA microgels for targeted cancer therapy.
• To investigate the stimuli-responsive drug delivery capabilities of aptamer-functionalized microgels.
• To evaluate the biocompatibility and cancer cell-killing efficacy of the developed system.

Main Methods:

• DNA microgels were synthesized using DNA complementarity and photo-initiated free radical polymerization.
• Copolymers of N-isopropylacrylamide and acrylamide formed the microgel network, crosslinked by DNA.
• Aptamer-functionalized moieties were incorporated for targeted delivery and stimuli-responsiveness.

Main Results:

• Novel DNA microgels with a non-conventional structure were successfully constructed.
• The AptMG-Dox system exhibited excellent biocompatibility.
• Highly selective killing efficacy against target cancer cells was demonstrated, driven by stimuli-responsiveness.

Conclusions:

• The developed DNA microgels offer a promising platform for intelligent drug delivery.
• The aptamer-functionalized system shows significant potential for targeted cancer therapy.
• Stimuli-responsive drug release enhances therapeutic efficacy and minimizes side effects.