Zn-based physiometacomposite nanoparticles: distribution, tolerance, imaging, and antiviral and anticancer activity

The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution, tolerance, and anticancer and antiviral activity of Zn-based physiometacomposites (PMCs). Manganese, iron, nickel and cobalt-doped ZnO, ZnS or ZnSe were synthesized. Cell uptake, distribution into 3D culture and mice, and biochemical and chemotherapeutic activity were studied by fluorescence/bioluminescence, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, viability, antitumor and virus titer assays. Luminescence and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis showed that nanoparticle distribution was liver >spleen >kidney >lung >brain, without tissue or blood pathology. Photophysical characterization as ex vivo tissue probes and LL37 peptide, antisense oligomer or aptamer delivery targeting RAS/Ras binding domain (RBD) was investigated. Treatment at 25 μg/ml for 48 h showed ≥98-99% cell viability, 3D organoid uptake, 3-log inhibition of β-Galactosidase and porcine reproductive respiratory virus infection. Data support the preclinical development of PMCs for imaging and delivery targeting cancer and infectious disease.