Anti-ROR1 functionalised PLGA nanoparticles modulate metastatic and EMT biomarkers via cellular uptake of curcumin and ICA in colon cancer cells SW480 (original) (raw)

The challenge of next-generation nanoparticles (NPs) includes limited cellular uptake and loss by phagocytosis. General surface modification of NPs potentially enhances evasion from phagocytosis. However, active targeting and enhanced cellular uptake of nanoparticles are possible by surface functionalisation with molecules that have selective affinity for cancer cells. ROR1 is a cell surface receptor that is over-expressed in cancer cells. Hence, its conjugate antibody could be a potential surface functionalisation molecule. In the current study, anti-ROR1 antibody has been covalently attached to nanoparticles' surface, thereby imparting its active targeting potential. Physicochemical and in vitro characterisations of the antibody-conjugated nanoparticles were performed. Surface functionalisation of nanoparticles was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, isothermal calorimetry, and elemental analysis. Additionally, biomarkers of metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were studied. Anti-ROR1 mAb tagged nanoparticles further confirmed therapeutic efficacy against colon cancer cells, SW480, thus, opening scope for further in vivo studies.