pH‐responsive resveratrol‐loaded ZIF‐8 nanoparticles modified with tannic acid for promoting colon cancer cell apoptosis

Abstract

Resveratrol (Res) is known for its potential in treating various types of cancers, with a particular advantage of causing minimal toxic side effects. However, its clinical application is constrained by challenges such as poor bioavailability, low water solubility, and chemical instability in neutral and alkaline environments. In light of these limitations, we have developed a pH‐responsive drug delivery nanoplatform, Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs, which exhibits good biocompatibility and shows promise for in vitro cancer therapy. Benefiting from the mild reaction conditions provided by zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), a “one‐pot method” was used for drug synthesis and loading, resulting in a satisfactory loading capacity. Notably, Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs respond to acidic environments, leading to an improved drug release profile with a controlled release effect. Our cell‐based experiments indicated that tannic acid (TA) modification enhances the biocompatibility of ZIFs. 3‐(4,5)‐dimethylthiahiazo (‐z‐y1)‐3,5‐di‐ phenytetrazoliumromide (MTT assay), Hoechst 33342/PI staining, cell scratch assay, Transwell and Reverse Transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) assays further demonstrated that Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs inhibited colon cancer cell migration and invasion, and promoted apoptosis of colon cancer cells, suggesting a therapeutic potential and demonstrating anti‐cancer properties. In conclusion, the Res@ZIF‐8/TA NPs pH‐responsive drug delivery systems we developed may offer a promising avenue for cancer therapy. By addressing some of the challenges associated with Res‐based treatments, this system could contribute to advancements in cancer therapeutics.

Targeting the Gut: A Systematic Review of Specific Drug Nanocarriers

“…In fact, in such conditions the slightly acidic tumor microenvironment generated by the Warburg effect could lead to a drop in the pH to around 5.5, with cancerous cells and tissues being more acidic than the healthy microenvironments. Thus, smart pH-sensitive nanocarriers have been engineered to target colon pathologies, especially through oral drug administration, in the context of IBD and colon cancer, enhancing the specificity and effectiveness of treatments [ 65 , 66 , 67 , 68 , 69 , 70 , 71 , 72 , 73 ]. In particular, polyacid polymers, such as alginate and hyaluronic acid, are intrinsically suited for delivery in the gut; at an acidic pH, they can be found in their neutral shrunken form, protecting the drug during the passage through the stomach.…”

Recent Developments in Nanoparticle Formulations for Resveratrol Encapsulation as an Anticancer Agent

“…The Transwell and cell scratch assay results showed that RSV-loaded ZIF-8 inhibits cancer cell invasion and migration. The Hoescht 33342/PI and RT-qPCR results demonstrated that RSV-loaded ZIF-8 nanoparticles upregulate apoptotic gene expression in cancer cells ( Figure 14 and Figure 15 ) [ 200 ].…”

Advances in Precision Medicine Approaches for Colorectal Cancer: From Molecular Profiling to Targeted Therapies

“…One of the key advantage of targeted delivery systems in precision medicine for colorectal cancer is the potential to overcome drug resistance. By delivering therapeutic agents directly to cancer cells, these systems can bypass resistance mechanisms that may be present in normal cellular pathways. , Additionally, targeted delivery reduces exposure to healthy tissues, minimizing side effects and improving the overall safety profile of the treatment. Moreover, targeted delivery systems contribute to the personalization of colorectal cancer treatment by tailoring therapeutic interventions to the unique molecular profile of each patient’s tumor.…”