A novel theranostic system of PD-L1-Aptamer-functionalized fluorescent silica nanoparticles for triple-negative breast cancer

Abstract

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks effective targeted therapies due to absent hormone receptors and HER2 expression, often resulting in poor prognosis. This study developed a theranostic system, AptPD-L1-FSNPs, combining PD-L1 aptamers with fluorescent silica nanoparticles (FSNPs) for targeted imaging and therapy in TNBC.

Methods: PD-L1 aptamers were conjugated to FSNPs, forming AptPD-L1-FSNPs. In vitro binding was evaluated using PD-L1-positive TNBC cells and negative controls. In vivo tumor targeting and biodistribution were assessed via fluorescence imaging in TNBC-bearing mice. Therapeutic efficacy was measured by tumor growth inhibition, survival, and apoptosis, with toxicity assessed in major organs.

Results: AptPD-L1-FSNPs showed high specificity to PD-L1-expressing TNBC cells and prolonged tumor retention in vivo. Treatment led to reduced tumor growth, increased apoptosis, and improved survival with minimal toxicity.

Conclusion: AptPD-L1-FSNPs offer targeted TNBC imaging and therapeutic potential, demonstrating promise for future clinical applications in personalized cancer treatment.

Keywords: Fluorescent silica nanoparticles; PD-L1 aptamer; Theranostics; Triple-negative breast cancer.