Ultrasmall Gold Nanoparticles Boost Radiotherapy and Protect against Radiation Damage

This study investigates the effects of ultrasmall (∼4 nm) gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) combined with X-ray irradiation to enhance radiotherapy efficacy. Using the in vivo Drosophila melanogaster model, we observed that while AuNPs alone delayed embryonic development, their combination with irradiation completely halted it. Lifespan analysis showed that irradiated flies fed with AuNPs had a slight survival advantage, suggesting a protective effect against radiation-induced oxidative stress. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed increased DNA damage (or repair) in the flies, supporting the potential of AuNPs to boost the local radiation dose and offer protection against radiation-induced damage, with implications for optimized therapeutic strategies.