A PCN theranostic platform comprises a doxorubicin (DXR)-loaded liposomal core and an acid-sensitive polymer shell that is functionalized with Herceptin and GdIII-based MRI contrast agents. In vitro testing reveals a 14-fold increase in DXR-based cytotoxicity versus a non-targeted analogue and an 120-fold improvement in cellular GdIII-uptake in comparison with clinically approved DOTA-GdIII, leading to significant T1 MRI contrast enhancement.
Keywords: cancer targeting; drug delivery; magnetic resonance imaging; pH-responsive drug release; theranostics.