Enhanced Tumor Accumulation of Sub-2 nm Gold Nanoclusters for Cancer Radiation Therapy

TL;DR

This study introduces ultrasmall GSH-coated gold nanoclusters (<2 nm) as effective, metabolizable radiosensitizers that enhance tumor radiation therapy while allowing for renal clearance to reduce side effects.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel GSH-coated Au25 nanocluster with improved tumor accumulation and biocompatibility, enhancing radiotherapy efficacy and safety.

Findings

GSH-Au25 NCs preferentially accumulate in tumors via EPR effect.

The nanoclusters significantly enhance radiotherapy effectiveness.

They can be efficiently cleared by the kidneys, reducing toxicity.

Abstract

A new type of metabolizable and efficient radiosensitizer for cancer radiotherapy is presented in this study by combining ultrasmall Au nanoclusters (NCs, <2 nm) with biocompatible coating ligands (glutathione, GSH). The new nano-construct (GSH-coated Au25 NCs) inherits attractive features of both the Au core (strong radiosensitizing effect) and GSH shell (good biocompatibility). It can preferentially accumulate in tumor via the improved EPR effect, which leads to strong enhancement for cancer radiotherapy. After the treatment, the small-sized GSH-Au25 NCs can be efficiently cleared by the kidney, minimizing any potential side effects due to the accumulation of Au25 NCs in the body.