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Analyzing the CD44-Targeting Capabilities of Chitosan-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Glioblastoma Multiforme

JSHS · 2022

Thomas Commander, Ms. Marion Zeiner, Dr. Atique Ahmed · The Episcopal School of Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL

Overview

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of malignant brain tumor, and it is especially lethal with a median survival of only 21 months. It is characterized by an extremely strong recurrence rate (close to 100%) which is partially caused by resistance to conventional therapies. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancerous cells that are highly proliferative and drive tumor metastasis, recurrence, and therapeutic resistance. CSCs can be identified by certain stemness- related cell surface proteins which are distinguishable via flow cytometry. CD44 is one of the most common stemness markers. This study examines the efficacy with which chitosan-coated solid core iron oxide nanoparticles target CD44 in highly malignant GBM cells, thus providing valuable insight into a viable option for the direct and specific treatment of the most dangerous form of brain tumor cell. Chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using a co-precipitation method and characterized via dynamic light scattering to show optimal characteristics for neurological applications. GBM6 cells were treated with various dosages of nanoparticles and analyzed for cytotoxicity and uptake. The collected zeta potential of the synthesized nanoparticles was a very positive +39.8 mV which is advantageously positive for use in neuro-oncological applications because of their ability to effectively and safely traverse the blood-brain barrier. By observing nanoparticle uptake and cytotoxicity, I was able to collect significant results relating to the use of chitosan-coated nanoparticles for the treatment of GBM via effective targeting of CD44. By comparing nanoparticle uptake in CD44-blocked cells and non-blocked cells both treated with chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles, promising data was gathered that showed the viability of the CD44 targeting mechanism in chitosan-coated iron oxide nanoparticles because of the greater NP clustering in unblocked GBM6 cells.

Competition history

  • JSHS 2022 Category not listed

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