Advanced Precision Dual Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy for Prostate Cancer Using PSMA-ICG-Conjugated Gold...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Prostate cancer is a significant global health concern for men.
• Current treatments may lack specificity and efficacy.
• Targeted therapies offer potential for improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a targeted nanoparticle complex for combined photothermal and photodynamic therapy of prostate cancer.
• To enhance the specificity of treatment delivery to cancer cells.
• To evaluate the efficacy of the developed complex in vitro and in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Development of a gold nanoparticle-based complex (GNR-ICG-FA@PSMA) functionalized with folic acid (FA) and PSMA antibodies.
• In vitro assays including ROS, apoptosis (annexin V/PI), and cell viability (MTT).
• In vivo studies utilizing fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging, followed by histological analysis (TTC, HE, IHC staining).

Main Results:

• The GNR-ICG-FA@PSMA complex demonstrated significant ROS generation, apoptosis induction, and reduced cell viability in vitro upon laser irradiation.
• In vivo studies showed rapid tumor accumulation (within 9 hours) and effective therapeutic effects, including necrosis and apoptosis, mediated by GNRs and ICGs.
• FA and PSMA targeting moieties enhanced specificity for prostate cancer cells.

Conclusions:

• The GNR-ICG-FA@PSMA complex shows promise as a dual-action therapeutic agent for targeted prostate cancer treatment.
• The combination of PTT and PDT, facilitated by targeted nanoparticles, offers a potent strategy against prostate cancer.
• This nanoparticle system warrants further investigation for clinical translation in prostate cancer therapy.