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In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have unveiled a novel method to enhance cancer treatment precision through DNA-barcoded gold nanoparticles. This innovation paves the way for safer and more effective personalized cancer therapies.
Led by Assistant Professor Andy Tay from the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Institute of Health Innovation & Technology, the team demonstrated that gold nanoparticles with specific shapes, such as triangles, are highly effective in delivering therapeutic nucleic acids and heating tumor cells during photothermal therapy. These findings, published in Advanced Functional Materials on November 24, 2024, underscore the importance of nanoparticle design in tailoring cancer treatments to individual patient needs.
The Key to Precision Therapy
Gold nanoparticles, thousands of times thinner than human hair, hold tremendous potential for cancer treatment. They play a dual role—delivering drugs to tumors and converting light into heat to kill cancer cells in photothermal therapy. However, their effectiveness hinges on their ability to target tumors precisely.
“Nanoparticles are like delivery persons with unique keys. If the key doesn’t match the lock, the package won’t get through,” explained Asst Prof Tay. Designing the right “key” involves identifying the optimal nanoparticle shape, size, and surface properties—a challenging and costly process using conventional methods.
To address this, the team utilized DNA barcoding, attaching unique DNA sequences to each nanoparticle. This method enables researchers to track multiple designs simultaneously, monitor their behavior in the body, and identify the most effective configurations for targeting tumors.
Size, Shape, and Function
The study revealed that triangular nanoparticles performed exceptionally well, showing high cellular uptake and potent photothermal properties. Interestingly, while round nanoparticles showed poor uptake in laboratory tests, they excelled in preclinical models, demonstrating the importance of testing under realistic biological conditions.
The researchers also highlighted the need to explore nanoparticle shapes beyond traditional spheres, which dominate currently approved therapies. This approach could lead to the development of intermediate or shape-morphing designs, enhancing drug delivery at various stages of treatment.
Expanding Horizons
The team’s DNA barcoding technique offers applications beyond cancer therapy, including RNA delivery and treating diseases at the organ-specific level. Future research will expand their nanoparticle library to include 30 designs, aiming to target subcellular organelles and optimize treatments for breast cancer and other diseases.
“We’ve addressed a key challenge in cancer treatment—delivering drugs with greater precision and efficiency,” said Asst Prof Tay. “This innovation has the potential to transform cancer therapy and improve the safety and efficacy of nanotherapeutics across various medical applications.”
Disclaimer: This article is based on findings by researchers from the National University of Singapore and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. For personalized medical guidance, consult a healthcare professional.
Source:
National University of Singapore
Advanced Functional Materials, doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202411566
