Work

Effects of beta-cyclodextrin-Combretastatin A-4 nanoparticles containing selenium on apoptosis and metastasis of U-87MG glioblastoma cancer cells

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain tumor, faces significant treatment challenges due to drug resistance, blood-brain barrier limitations, and severe side effects of conventional therapies. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a nanotechnology-based therapeutic approach using selenium-loaded β-cyclodextrin-combretastatin A-4 nanoparticles (Se(B-CD-CA-4-NPs)) to overcome these limitations and enhance treatment efficacy. METHODS: The Se(B-CD-CA-4-NPs) complex was synthesized and characterized for morphology, size, stability, and selenium loading capacity. In vitro studies included MTT assay, cell apoptosis, scratch assay, gelatin zymography, and qPCR were used to assess the effect of the newly synthesized complex on U-87MG glioblastoma cell viability, cell death, migration, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity, and mRNA expression level of apoptosis-related genes. RESULTS: of the synthesized complex was 1.629 μM in U-87MG cancer cells. The Se(B-CD-CA-4-NPs) complex significantly reduced U-87MG cell viability, migration and invasion. Additionally, the complex induced cell apoptosis via upregulation of the BAX/BCL-2 ratio in cancer cells. Moreover, the Se(B-CD-CA-4-NPs) complex inhibited metastasis by suppressing the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. CONCLUSION: The Se(B-CD-CA-4-NPs) complex represents a promising multifunctional therapeutic agent for GBM, offering enhanced proapoptotic property, selective tumor targeting, and reduced toxicity.

Source: Discover Oncology

DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-04191-7