# Hybridized quantum dot, silica, and gold nanoparticles for targeted chemo-radiotherapy in colorectal cancer theranostics

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a new type of nanoparticle that combines quantum dots, silica, and gold to deliver chemotherapy and radiation to colorectal cancer cells while allowing imaging, reducing side effects.

## Contribution

The novel hybrid nanoparticle system combines quantum dots, mesoporous silica, and gold for targeted chemo-radiotherapy and imaging in colorectal cancer.

## Key findings

- Hybrid nanocarriers show selective cytotoxicity towards colorectal cancer cells in vitro.
- In vivo studies confirm enhanced anti-tumor effects with minimal side effects from targeted chemo-radiotherapy.
- The nanocarriers enable imaging and drug delivery in a colorectal cancer mouse model.

## Abstract

Multimodal nanoparticles, utilizing quantum dots (QDs), mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs), offer substantial potential as a smart and targeted drug delivery system for simultaneous cancer therapy and imaging. This method entails coating magnetic GZCIS/ZnS QDs with mesoporous silica, loading epirubicin into the pores, capping with Au NPs, PEGylation, and conjugating with epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) aptamers to actively target colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. This study showcases the hybrid QD@MSN-EPI-Au-PEG-Apt nanocarriers (size ~65 nm) with comprehensive characterizations post-synthesis. In vitro studies demonstrate the selective cytotoxicity of these targeted nanocarriers towards HT-29 cells compared to CHO cells, leading to a significant reduction in HT-29 cell survival when combined with irradiation. Targeted delivery of nanocarriers in vivo is validated by enhanced anti-tumor effects with reduced side effects following chemo-radiotherapy, along with imaging in a CRC mouse model. This approach holds promise for improved CRC theranostics.

Multimodal NPs for cancer theranostics show selective release, uptake, and reduced cancer cell survival when combined with radiation. In vivo tracking confirms efficacy with minimal side effects by targeted NPs containing chemo/radio/contrast agents.