Expanding the range and capabilities of ROS-sensitive lipid nanoparticle formulations for cancer therapy

Ellen Jurland – Master's student, University of Gothenburg; Olga Lem – Doctoral Researcher, Tampere University; Timo Laaksonen – Professor, University of Helsinki; Nikita Durandin – Academy Research Fellow, Tampere University

Introduction: Far-red light can be utilized to trigger drug release from ROS-responsive lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) by utilizing the principle of photodynamic therapy (PDT).^1,2 LNP-encapsulated photosensitizers generate ROS upon light exposer leading to lipid bilayer destabilization, disruption, and eventually, the release of the encapsulated cargo from the LNPs.² The generated ROS additionally promotes oxidative damage and cell death through apoptotic, necrotic, and immune system-mediated pathways. Thus, the ROS-responsive multi-functional LNPs provide an attractive alternative for increasing of the selectivity and efficacy of cancer treatments compared to conventional monotherapies.^1,3