Home / Science / Breakthrough Nanoparticles Halt Breast Cancer Survival
Breakthrough Nanoparticles Halt Breast Cancer Survival
9 Jun
Summary
- Biodegradable nanoparticles target and silence key genes in breast cancer cells.
- Dual gene-silencing approach targets MCL-1 and Survivin genes.
- Therapy showed promising results in mice with minimal toxicity.
Researchers at Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) in Pune have pioneered a new nanomedicine platform designed to combat breast cancer. This innovative approach utilizes biodegradable nanoparticles to selectively target breast cancer cells and deactivate genes essential for their survival and proliferation.
The engineered nanoparticles carry small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules. They are surface-modified with a protamine biopolymer and an MUC1-specific aptamer, enabling precise targeting of MUC1 receptors abundant on breast cancer cells. This ensures the therapy primarily affects cancerous tissues, minimizing damage to healthy cells.
A key advancement is the dual gene-silencing capability. The nanocarrier simultaneously delivers siRNA against MCL-1 and Survivin, two genes that promote tumor growth and resistance to programmed cell death. Elevated glutathione levels within cancer cells trigger the release of these therapeutic molecules.
Experiments on human breast cancer cells and animal models showed substantial suppression of target genes, leading to enhanced cancer cell death and inhibited tumor growth. Importantly, animal studies revealed minimal systemic toxicity and no significant damage to vital organs, suggesting a safer treatment profile.
This research, published on June 3 in Advanced Healthcare Materials, combines targeted delivery with stimuli-responsive release and simultaneous gene silencing. The findings provide a strong foundation for developing next-generation RNA interference-based precision medicines for cancer treatment.
