Targeting CXCR4-expressing Cancer Cells with Avidin-poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanoparticle Surface Modified with Biotinylated DV1 Peptide.

BACKGROUND

Chemokine receptor CXCR4 is frequently present in cells of various cancers. Hence, targeted therapy using CXCR4 ligands, such as DV1 peptide, on drug-loaded nanoparticles, has the potential to enhance the efficiency of cancer treatment.

AIM

The present study created a CXCR4-targeting drug delivery system using avidin-poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticle surface tagged with biotinylated DV1 peptide ligand.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A double-emulsion solvent evaporation technique was employed to prepare avidin-PLGA nanoparticles and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering. Uptake was studied by confocal microscopy after incorporating fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled albumin inside the nanoparticles during their synthesis. Peptide-biotin-avidin-PLGA nanoparticles were tested on CXCR4-expressing U87MG cells. Photomicroscopy was done by a Nikon A1 Confocal Microscope, and pictures were analyzed by Nikon NIS-Elements BR software.

RESULTS

Experimental results confirmed the specificity of DV1 peptide-tagged avidin-PLGA nanoparticles for cells expressing CXCR4 receptors. The avidin-PLGA nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and the same was confirmed by tagging them with FITC-labeled biotin.

CONCLUSION

Avidin-PLGA nanoparticle surface tagged with biotinylated DV1 peptide ligand has potential clinical application in the treatment of various cancers as targeted therapy for CXCR4-expressing cancer cells.