Developing an Innovative Controlled-release Implant to Enhance Tumour Radiosensitivity in Prostate Cancer.

Rayhanul Islam – Research Fellow, Queen's University Belfast; Sarah Chambers – Research Fellow, Queen's University Belfast; Stephen McMahon – Professor, Queen's University Belfast; Helen McCarthy – Professor, Queen's University Belfast; Eneko Larrañeta – Professor, Queen's University Belfast; Jonathan Coulter – Professor, Queen's University Belfast

Poster Presenter(s)

MA

Masoud Adhami, MSc

Mr
Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Introduction:

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are promising radiosensitisers but are limited by poor stability and cellular uptake. Conjugation with the cell-penetrating peptide RALA has previously been shown to markedly enhance AuNP internalisation, achieving effective radiosensitisation at lower concentrations. Sustained AuNP presence is required throughout radiotherapy to maximise benefit; however, repeated injections are poorly tolerated. To overcome this limitation, RALA–AuNP-loaded implants were developed to enable prolonged and controlled release of radiosensitising AuNPs.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion, participant will be able to explain how AuRA enhances tumour radiosensitivity.
Upon completion, participant will be able to describe fabrication of controlled-release PLGA implants.
Upon completion, participant will be able to evaluate sustained nanoparticle release and radiosensitisation.