Revolutionizing Cancer Radiotherapy with Gold Nanoparticles | Nanopartz™
Introduction
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are transforming the landscape of cancer treatment. Acting as potent radiosensitizers, these nanomaterials enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy by amplifying tumor targeting and minimizing damage to healthy tissues. At Nanopartz, we are at the forefront of nanoparticle innovation, delivering high-quality solutions for advanced cancer treatments.
What are Gold Nanoparticles?
Gold nanoparticles are minute gold particles ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers in size. Their unique physical and chemical properties make them invaluable in medical applications, particularly in enhancing the precision of cancer radiotherapy.
Key Features:
- High biocompatibility
- Strong photoelectric absorption
- Easy functionalization for targeting tumors
Image illustrating gold nanoparticles clustering around a tumor cell during cancer radiotherapy
Residual γH2AX fluorescence images obtained for cells incubated A) with Nanopartz in vivo Gold Nanoparticles (D11-50-VM-DIH-50-1) and B) without AuNP. Representative residual γH2AX fluorescence images are shown for cells incubated with AuNP (Figure A) and without AuNP (Figure B). The number of cells with no foci is evidently smaller for the cells incubated with AuNP, indicating increased unrepaired radiation damage. (from Ngwa et al.)
How Gold Nanoparticles Enhance Radiotherapy
Gold nanoparticles enhance radiotherapy by increasing the absorption of radiation in tumor tissues. Here’s how they work:
- Selective Targeting: Functionalized AuNPs bind to tumor cells, ensuring radiation focuses on the malignant tissues.
- Amplified Radiation Dose: Their high atomic number boosts the local radiation dose at the tumor site.
- Reduced Side Effects: Healthy tissues are shielded from excessive radiation exposure.
Research highlights the promise of gold nanorods in preclinical in vivo therapeutics. For example, a 2012 pilot study involving canines with solid cancer tumors demonstrated significant gold nanorod accumulation in tumors after intravenous injection, coupled with enhanced heating during laser therapy (Wikipedia, "Gold Nanoparticles in Chemotherapy").
Benefits of Using Gold Nanoparticles in Cancer Radiotherapy
- Improved Treatment Outcomes: Clinical studies show higher tumor cell eradication rates.
- Precision Targeting: Enhanced imaging aids in pinpoint accuracy.
- Biodegradable Solutions: Reduced toxicity compared to conventional treatments.
Additionally, Nanopartz materials have been used in photothermal hyperthermia and chemotherapeutic drug delivery, illustrating their versatility and efficacy in preclinical studies ("Gold Nanoparticles in Chemotherapy").
Available Gold Nanoparticle Products from Nanopartz
Nanopartz offers a variety of gold nanoparticle products tailored specifically for medical applications, including cardiology imaging. These products can be customized in terms of size, shape, and functionality to fit seamlessly with different imaging technologies, allowing healthcare providers to select the most effective option for their diagnostic needs.
References
Recent references that have used Nanopartz products as Radiosensitizers:
- Ngwa, Wilfred, et al. "In vitro radiosensitization by gold nanoparticles during continuous low-dose-rate gamma irradiation with I-125 brachytherapy seeds." Physics in Medicine and Biology, 2013, Elsevier.
- Wu, Z., et al. "Functionalized Hybrid Iron Oxide–Gold Nanoparticles Targeting Membrane Hsp70 Radiosensitize Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells by ROS-Mediated Apoptosis." Cancers, 2023, MDPI.
- Coluccia, Davide, et al. "Enhancing glioblastoma treatment using cisplatin-gold-nanoparticle conjugates and targeted delivery with magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound." Physics in Medicine and Biology, 2018, Elsevier.
To order and for more information go here for Nanopartz in vivo Gold Nanoparticles
