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Cell Labeling and Targeting with Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Published on: October 19, 2015
The selective toxicity of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) on oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)
Mona Afrasiabi1, Enayatollah Seydi2,3, Shabnam Rahimi1
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
In recent years, many researchers have made tremendous efforts into using nanotechnology in biomedical applications and science, such as magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery, and in particular, oncological therapeutic via superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and especially oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have been a serious and ongoing concern. There are many strong emphases on the importance of toxic mechanisms due to oxidative stress and specifically, the changed cellular response. Therefore, our study was designed to evaluate the effects of SPIONs on OSCC mitochondria because of the usefulness of the application of these nanoparticles in cancer treatment and diagnosis. An increased level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is one of the substantial mechanisms found for SPIONs in this study, and initially originated from disruption of the electron transfer chain shown by a decrease in mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase activity. Increased ROS formation subsequently followed a decline of mitochondrial membrane potential, the release of mitochondrial cytochrome complex, and mitochondrial swelling in the OSCC mitochondria compared with almost no effect in normal mitochondria. In addition, the SPIONs decreased cell viability and increased lipid peroxidation level and caspase-3 activity in OSCC cells. The results represented that the exposure to the SPIONs induced selective toxicity only on the OSCC but not normal mitochondria. Based on our findings, we finally concluded that the SPIONs may be considered as a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of OSCC.
Insights
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) show selective toxicity against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) mitochondria. SPIONs offer a potential therapeutic strategy for OSCC by inducing oxidative stress and cell death.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology in Biomedical Applications
- Oncology
- Mitochondrial Toxicology
Background:
- Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are increasingly used in biomedical applications, including cancer therapy and diagnostics.
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) presents a significant health concern, with oxidative stress implicated in its pathogenesis.
- Understanding the toxic mechanisms of nanoparticles on cancer cells is crucial for therapeutic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of SPIONs on mitochondria in OSCC cells.
- To investigate the potential of SPIONs as a therapeutic agent for OSCC.
Main Methods:
- Assessed reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and mitochondrial succinate dehydrogenase activity.
- Measured mitochondrial membrane potential, cytochrome c release, and mitochondrial swelling.
- Determined cell viability, lipid peroxidation, and caspase-3 activity in OSCC cells.
Main Results:
- SPIONs increased ROS production in OSCC mitochondria by disrupting the electron transport chain and decreasing enzyme activity.
- SPIONs induced mitochondrial dysfunction, including decreased membrane potential, cytochrome c release, and swelling, specifically in OSCC cells.
- SPIONs reduced OSCC cell viability and increased markers of oxidative damage and apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- SPIONs exhibit selective toxicity towards OSCC mitochondria, sparing normal mitochondria.
- The observed effects are mediated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage.
- SPIONs represent a promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
