Affinity-driven functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles using tryptophan-isatin for potential bio-applications

This study aims to develop biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) functionalized with tryptophan (Trp) and isatin (Isa), two biologically active molecules with known blood-brain barrier permeability and anticancer activity. The primary objective was to evaluate the potential of these functionalized MNPs for glioblastoma therapy.

Trp and Isa were conjugated onto MNPs, and the resulting nanomaterials were characterized using SEM-EDS, FTIR, XPS, and DLS. The U-87 human glioblastoma cell line was used to investigate cellular uptake, cytotoxicity (MTT assay), and radiosensitizing effects. Additional molecular insights were obtained through STRING-based network analysis.

The synthesized MNPs exhibited spherical morphology with a uniform size of approximately 100-110 nm. No significant cytotoxicity was observed at concentrations up to 10 µg/mL under standard culture conditions. However, a 70% reduction in cell viability was achieved following radiotherapy when cells were pretreated with Trp-Isa functionalized MNPs. STRING analysis revealed that Trp and Isa are involved in molecular pathways associated with glioblastoma.

These findings suggest that Trp and Isa functionalized MNPs hold promise as a targeted and radiosensitizing nanoplatform for glioblastoma treatment. The approach also highlights broader potential for such engineered nanoparticles in the field of nanomedicine.