Ultrasmall Gd@Cdots as a radiosensitizing agent for non-small cell lung cancer. Issue 20 (13th May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lee, Chaebin; Liu, Xiangji; Zhang, Weizhong; Duncan, Michael A.; Jiang, Fangchao; Kim, Christine; Yan, Xuefeng; Teng, Yong; Wang, Hui; Jiang, Wen; Li, Zibo; Xie, Jin
• Is Part Of: Nanoscale. Volume 13:Issue 20(2021)
• Page Start: 9252
• Page End: 9263
• Publication Date: 2021-05-13
• Subjects: Nanoscience -- Periodicals; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; 620.505
• DOI: 10.1039/d0nr08166c
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2040-3364

Abstract

Abstract : Gd@Cdots show excellent radiosensitizing effects due to high-Z photoelectric effects and surface catalytic effects. They can be intravenously injected to enhance radiotherapy without causing detectable systemic toxicity. Abstract : High-Z nanoparticles (HZNPs) afford high cross-section for high energy radiation and have attracted wide attention as a novel type of radiosensitizer. However, conventional HZNPs are often associated with issues such as heavy metal toxicity, suboptimal pharmacokinetics, and low cellular uptake. Herein, we explore gadolinium-intercalated carbon dots (Gd@Cdots) as a dose-modifying agent for radiotherapy. Gd@Cdots are synthesized through a hydrothermal reaction with an ultrasmall size (∼3 nm) and a high Gd content. Gd@Cdots can significantly increase hydroxyl radical production under X-ray irradiation; this is attributed to not only the photoelectric effects of Gd, but also the surface catalytic effects of carbon. Because carbon is biologically and chemically inert, Gd@Cdots show low Gd leakage and minimal toxicity. In vitro studies confirm that Gd@Cdots can efficiently enhance radiation-induced cellular damage, causing elevated double strand breaks, lipid peroxidation, and mitochondrial depolarization. When tested in mice bearing non-small cell lung cancer H1299 tumors, intravenously injected Gd@Cdots plus radiation leads to improved tumor suppression and animal survival relative to radiation alone while causing no detectable toxicity. Our studies suggest a great potential of Gd@Cdots as a safe and efficient radiosensitizer.