EGFR-targeted photodynamic therapy by curcumin-encapsulated chitosan/TPP nanoparticles

Abstract

Background Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective therapy for cancers and is a minimally invasive therapy with low dark toxicity and limited side effects. PDT employs the combination of photosensitizers with a specific light source to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) to damage tumor cells. Methods We fabricated nanoparticles encapsulating curcumin through crosslinking chitosan and tripolyphosphate (TPP). Additionally, the chitosan was conjugated to epidermal growth factor in order to target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), overexpressed on cancer cells. To investigate PDT using fabricated nanoparticles, we measured cell viabilities and ROS production in relation to EGFR-overexpressing gastric cancer cells and non-cancer gastric cells. Results The targeting nanoparticles displayed a superior PDT effect in the cancer cell, with a resultant approximately fourfold decrease in the IC 50 . The PDT mechanism of curcumin-encapsulated nanoparticles is further identified as the generation of 1 O 2 , the major pathway in PDT. Conclusion These curcumin-encapsulated chitosan/TPP nanoparticles are a promising targeted-PDT against EGFR-overexpressing cancers.

Nanoparticle‐based photothermal and photodynamic immunotherapy for tumor treatment

“…Nanoparticlebased PDT is a new therapeutic strategy that relies on nanoparticles as a carrier or PS. 74,80 Another drawback of conventional PDT is the short wavelength of the excitation light, which is mainly located in the ultraviolet or visible region, resulting in limited penetration depth and in easy distribution by various endogenous light chromophores, such as melanin. 3).…”

“…73 It is as a promising candidate for the treatment of cancers, such as colorectal, breast, lung and skin cancers. [74][75][76][77] PDT relies on the selective retention of photosensitizers (PSs) in tumor tissues under the activation of a specific wavelength of excitation light in the presence of molecular oxygen to generate singlet oxygen and other ROS, leading to tumor cell apoptosis and necrosis. 78 Three key factors, namely, PS, excitation light and oxygen, are involved in this process and constrain the efficacy of PDT.…”

“…79 Targeted molecule-modified nanocarriers not only improve the stability and biocompatibility of PS but also deliver PS to the target cells to improve the curative effect and reduce side effects. 74,80 Another drawback of conventional PDT is the short wavelength of the excitation light, which is mainly located in the ultraviolet or visible region, resulting in limited penetration depth and in easy distribution by various endogenous light chromophores, such as melanin. 81 For overcoming the shortcomings of the PS that required a short wavelength excitation light, new PSs, such as NIR fluorescent dyes, have been developed.…”

Carboxymethyl chitosan nanoparticles loaded with bioactive peptide OH-CATH30 benefit nonscar wound healing

“…CMCS-OH30 NP were prepared according to the previously described ionic gelation method. 21 Briefly, the OH30 aqueous solution (1 mg/mL, pH 7.4), CMCS aqueous solution (1 mg/mL, pH 7.4), and CS acetic acid solution (1 mg/mL, pH 6.0) were separately prepared. OH30 and CMCS solutions were premixed for 30 min under magnetic stirring; the formed primary structure was termed as CMCS-OH30 PNP.…”

“…20 Furthermore, the nanoparticles with positive surface charges are capable of ionic interaction with cell membranes carrying negative charges, which can accelerate their cellular internalization. 21 Thus, positive surface charged nanoparticles coated with CS and CMCS might be suitable to encapsulate peptide molecules, such as AMPs, for wound care application.…”