Auranofin-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles Demonstrate Potency against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a significant clinical challenge due to its heterogeneity and lack of targeted therapies.
• Auranofin, a gold-derived compound, demonstrates anticancer potential but faces limitations in solubility and bioavailability.
• Novel drug delivery systems are crucial for improving the efficacy of existing anticancer agents against TNBC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate biodegradable chitosan-polyethylene glycol (PEG) nanoparticles (NPs) for enhanced delivery of auranofin.
• To compare the anticancer efficacy of auranofin-loaded nanoparticles against free auranofin in TNBC models.
• To optimize nanoparticle formulation for improved solubility and therapeutic effect.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of chitosan-g-PEG copolymers using formaldehyde-mediated engraftment.
• Characterization of nanoparticle physicochemical properties, including stiffness using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
• In vivo evaluation of auranofin-loaded CP 2 NPs against TNBC, comparing efficacy with free auranofin at different dosages.

Main Results:

• Chitosan-g-PEG nanoparticles (CP 2 NP) were successfully synthesized, maintaining chitosan's cationic properties while improving solubility.
• Encapsulated auranofin in CP 2 NPs demonstrated superior potency against TNBC cells in vivo, inducing significant necrosis.
• The optimal auranofin dose was lower when delivered via nanoparticles (3 mg/kg) compared to the free drug (5 mg/kg).

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-g-PEG nanoparticles serve as an effective delivery system for auranofin in TNBC treatment.
• Nanodelivery enhances auranofin's anticancer activity and bioavailability, potentially overcoming clinical limitations.
• This approach offers a promising strategy for improving therapeutic outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer.