Analysis of the molecular alterations in cancer cells following nanotechnology-assisted targeted radiotherapy using...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Cancer radiotherapy faces challenges in precise targeting and monitoring molecular responses.
• HER2-positive breast cancers are a significant clinical concern.
• Nanoparticle-drug conjugates offer potential for targeted cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the combined effect of anti-HER2-AgNPs nanoconjugates and gamma irradiation on SKBR3 breast cancer cell viability.
• To monitor radiation-induced molecular alterations using Raman spectroscopy (RS) in conjunction with nanoconjugates.

Main Methods:

• SKBR3 breast cancer cells were treated with anti-HER2-AgNPs nanoconjugates alone or combined with varying doses of gamma irradiation.
• Cell viability was assessed after irradiation.
• Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was employed to analyze molecular changes.

Main Results:

• Nanoconjugates enhanced cellular sensitivity to radiation therapy.
• Increased irradiation dose led to decreased cell viability, with effects amplified over time.
• RS analysis indicated dose-dependent changes in HER2 expression, with potential upregulation at 2 Gy and downregulation at 4-6 Gy.
• SERS intensity correlated with irradiation dose, reflecting biochemical alterations.

Conclusions:

• Anti-HER2-AgNPs nanoconjugates can potentiate radiation therapy efficacy in HER2-positive breast cancer cells.
• Raman spectroscopy analysis of nanoconjugate-treated cells can identify radiation-induced biochemical changes.
• This approach holds promise for monitoring and optimizing nanoconjugate-based radiotherapy.