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Published on: March 1, 2024
NIR-II Fluorescence Imaging-guided Photothermal Activated Pyroptosis For Precision Therapy Of Glioma
Zhuang Chen1, Yi Luo1, Qian Jia1
1Lab of Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine (MITM), Engineering Research Center of Molecular & Neuro-imaging, Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, P. R. China.
Abstract:
The resistance of cancer cells to apoptosis poses a significant challenge in cancer therapy, driving the exploration of alternative cell death pathways such as pyroptosis, known for its rapid and potent effects. While initial efforts focused on chemotherapy-induced pyroptosis, concerns about systemic inflammation highlight the need for precise activation strategies. Photothermal therapy emerges as a promising non-invasive technique, minimizing pyroptosis-related side effects by targeting tumors spatially and temporally. However, accurately pinpointing tumors to avoid collateral damage remains a challenge. Thus, we utilize NIR-II fluorescence imaging to achieve precise PTT-induced pyroptosis activation in glioma. A polymer semiconductor-based PTT agent was developed with high optical stability, integrated with mesoporous silica to enhance its biocompatibility. These nanoparticles, stabilized through PEG modification and targeted with cRGD peptides, effectively induced pyroptosis in vitro. Furthermore, this design facilitated precise tumor imaging guidance and subsequent pyroptosis activation in vivo, presenting a promising strategy for glioma therapy with minimized adverse effects.
Insights
This study introduces a novel approach for glioma treatment by precisely activating pyroptosis using photothermal therapy guided by near-infrared-II fluorescence imaging, minimizing side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Oncology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Cancer cell resistance to apoptosis necessitates alternative cell death strategies like pyroptosis.
- Chemotherapy-induced pyroptosis raises concerns about systemic inflammation.
- Photothermal therapy (PTT) offers non-invasive tumor targeting but faces imaging limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a precise method for activating pyroptosis in glioma using PTT guided by NIR-II fluorescence imaging.
- To create biocompatible nanoparticles for targeted PTT and imaging in glioma therapy.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized polymer semiconductor nanoparticles with mesoporous silica and PEG modification.
- Functionalized nanoparticles with cRGD peptides for targeted delivery.
- Evaluated in vitro pyroptosis induction and in vivo tumor imaging and therapy in a glioma model.
Main Results:
- Developed stable nanoparticles with enhanced biocompatibility.
- Achieved precise tumor imaging and localized PTT-induced pyroptosis in vitro and in vivo.
- Demonstrated minimized adverse effects in the glioma model.
Conclusions:
- NIR-II fluorescence imaging combined with PTT offers a precise strategy for activating pyroptosis in glioma.
- This approach holds promise for effective glioma therapy with reduced side effects.
