Natural polymer-based smart nanoparticles developed by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi have been utilized to treat colorectal cancer. These nanoparticles deliver the medicine in response to triggers unique to the cancer spot.
The researchers created redox-responsive chitosan/stearic acid nanoparticles (CSSA NPs) to be utilized as drug carriers for both curcumin (hydrophobic; a component of turmeric that is commonly used in food) and doxorubicin (hydrophilic) medications targeting colorectal cancer. This strategy of combining anticancer medications with distinct modes of anticancer activity allows for the development of cancer therapy systems with improved efficacy.
The researchers created biodegradable nanoparticles from renewable resources, lowering reliance on petroleum-based polymers. These smart nanoparticles are durable in healthy settings but disintegrate at the tumor site in the presence of cancer cell redox triggers. These nanoparticles can be employed to successfully load and release both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs with diverse anticancer actions, which can aid to improve therapy efficiency.
In vitro studies on cancer cell killing effectiveness and in vivo biodistribution assays on c57bl/6j mice were also conducted. The research team intends to conduct additional biological studies to acquire a better understanding of the new system’s potential for colorectal cancer treatment.
