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Engineering Thermo/pH-Responsive Lactoferrin Nanostructured Microbeads for Oral Targeting of Colorectal Cancer

  • 0Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt.
Acs Biomaterials Science & Engineering +

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July 30, 2024

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July 30, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Engineered lactoferrin nanostructured microbeads offer a novel oral therapy for colorectal cancer. These dual-responsive microbeads enhance drug delivery and reduce tumor burden in preclinical models.

Area Of Science

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Nanotechnology
  • Cancer Therapeutics

Background

  • Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a deadly malignancy with limited oral treatment options.
  • Lactoferrin (LF) shows promise for CRC therapy, but oral delivery is challenging.
  • Existing delivery systems face hurdles in targeting and efficacy.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To engineer dual-responsive lactoferrin nanostructured microbeads for enhanced oral delivery of CRC therapeutics.
  • To overcome the limitations of oral drug delivery for colorectal cancer treatment.
  • To improve drug targeting and therapeutic outcomes in CRC.

Main Methods

  • Amphiphilic conjugate nanoparticles were formed by coupling mesalazine (MSZ) to lactoferrin (LF).
  • Resveratrol (RSV) was encapsulated into LF-MSZ nanoparticles, which were then coated with a thermoresponsive PNIPAAm shell.
  • Nanoparticles were microencapsulated into pectin-alginate beads for gastrointestinal resistance and pH responsiveness.

Main Results

  • Nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced internalization and cytotoxicity in HCT colon cancer cells via LF-receptor-mediated endocytosis.
  • The microbeads exhibited temperature-triggered release and protected encapsulated drugs from degradation.
  • Oral administration in a mouse model significantly reduced tumor burden, modulated tumor markers, and induced apoptosis.

Conclusions

  • Lactoferrin nanostructured microbeads represent a promising, innovative approach for oral colorectal cancer therapy.
  • This dual-responsive system overcomes oral delivery challenges, offering a paradigm shift in CRC treatment.
  • The engineered microbeads show significant therapeutic potential in preclinical settings.

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