Aptamer-Coated PLGA Nanoparticles Selectively Internalize into Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cells In Vitro and In Vivo.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Ovarian cancer remains a significant cause of cancer-related deaths in women.
• Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial for improving patient survival rates.
• Novel strategies are needed to enhance the efficacy of ovarian cancer therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate aptamer-RALA01-labeled nanoparticles for targeted delivery to epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) cells.
• To assess the ability of these nanoparticles to deliver therapeutic payloads and inhibit EOC cell growth.
• To investigate the in vivo tumor-targeting capabilities of aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of PLGA-based nanoparticles with a single-strand DNA aptamer (RLA01) specific for EOC cells.
• In vitro assessment of cellular uptake in EOC (Caov-3) and non-target (HOSE 6-3) cells via receptor-mediated endocytosis.
• Evaluation of paclitaxel-loaded nanoparticle efficacy in reducing cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis.
• Preliminary in vivo studies to assess nanoparticle stability and tumor retention.

Main Results:

• RLA01-labeled nanoparticles significantly enhanced cellular uptake (20-85%) into EOC cells while showing minimal uptake in non-target cells.
• Paclitaxel-loaded RLA01 nanoparticles effectively inhibited EOC cell proliferation and induced apoptosis.
• In vivo studies indicated aptamer-mediated nanoparticle retention and tumor homing.

Conclusions:

• Aptamer RLA01-functionalized nanoparticles demonstrate selective targeting and enhanced payload delivery to EOC cells in vitro.
• This combinatorial approach shows promise for targeted ovarian cancer therapy with potential for improved in vivo efficacy.
• Aptamer-nanoparticle conjugates represent a viable strategy for direct tumor cell targeting in ovarian malignancies.