Multifunctional gold nanorods for siRNA gene silencing and photothermal therapy

Adv Healthc Mater. 2014 Oct;3(10):1629-37. doi: 10.1002/adhm.201400103. Epub 2014 Apr 1.

Abstract

Cancer is a complex disease that usually requires several treatment modalities. A multifunctional nanotherapeutic system is designed, incorporating small interfering RNA (siRNA) and gold nanorods (Au NRs) for photothermal therapy. Surface-engineered Au NRs with polyethylenimine are synthesized using a layer-by-layer assembly and siRNA is absorbed on the surface. The siRNA is efficiently delivered into breast cancer cells, resulting in subsequent gene silencing. Cells are then irradiated with near-infrared (NIR) light, causing heat-induced anticancer activity. The combination of gene silencing and photothermal therapy results in effective inhibition of cell proliferation.

Keywords: gold nanorods; layer-by-layer assembly; photothermal therapy; siRNA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Female
  • Gene Silencing
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Gold / administration & dosage
  • Gold / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Hyperthermia, Induced / methods*
  • Macrophages / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Nanotubes / chemistry*
  • Phototherapy / methods*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / administration & dosage*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / chemistry
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics

Substances

  • RNA, Small Interfering
  • Gold