Nano shield: a new tetrahedral framework nucleic acids-based solution to radiation-induced mucositis

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Radiotherapy Research

Background:

• Radiation-induced oral mucositis (RIOM) is a significant public health issue affecting cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
• Current prevention and treatment strategies for RIOM remain limited.
• Curcumin (Cur) possesses beneficial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but suffers from poor bioavailability and stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel drug delivery system for curcumin to enhance its efficacy in preventing RIOM.
• To evaluate the protective effects of curcumin-loaded tetrahedral framework nucleic acid systems (Cur-TFNAS) against radiation-induced oral mucosal damage.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a tetrahedral framework nucleic acid drug delivery system (TFNAS).
• Loading curcumin (Cur) onto the TFNAS to create Cur-TFNAS.
• In vitro assessment of Cur-TFNAS on human oral keratinocytes (HOKs) for antioxidant capacity, DNA damage, and inflammatory response.
• In vivo validation of Cur-TFNAS efficacy in a preclinical model.

Main Results:

• Cur-TFNAS significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity of HOKs compared to free Cur and TFNAS.
• Cur-TFNAS demonstrated a notable reduction in radiation-induced DNA damage in oral cells.
• The system effectively shielded oral cells from inflammatory factors, both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions:

• Cur-TFNAS functions as an effective nano-shield against radiation-induced oral mucositis.
• The developed system holds significant potential for future clinical applications in managing RIOM.