Aim: To synthesize cRGDfK peptide conjugated poly(γ-glutamic acid)-phenylalanine nanoparticles to improve the therapeutic efficacy of camptothecin (CPT) against glioblastoma multiforme.
Methods: Peptide-conjugated, drug-loaded nanoparticles (cRGDfK-conjugated camptothecin-loaded PGA-PA nanoparticles [RCPN]) were prepared and physico-chemically characterized using different techniques. Nanoparticles were evaluated for in vitro anticancer activity, cellular uptake, induction of apoptosis and wound healing cell migration against U87MG human glioblastoma cells.
Results: RCPN, with a particle size of <100 nm and 65% CPT encapsulation efficiency, exhibited a dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity to glioblastoma cells. Compared with native CPT or unconjugated nanoparticles, RCPN induced apoptosis, increased reactive oxygen species generation and inhibited U87MG cell migration.
Conclusion: cRGDfK-mediated and amphiphilic copolymer-based nanomedicines represent a new approach for improved delivery of anticancer drugs to and treatment of glioblastoma multiforme.
Keywords: anticancer activity; cRGDfK; camptothecin; glioblastoma multiforme; phenylalanine; poly(γ-glutamic acid).