Targeted aptamer-nanoparticles to diminish drug resistance of cancer cells in vitro study

Using prostate cancer as a model, we report the drug release of Docetaxel and doxorubicin from aptamer-poly (D,L lactic co glycolic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLGA-PEG) nanoparticles used to target prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a well characterized antigen that is expressed on the surface of prostate cancer cells. In our study, the doxorubicin non-covalently intercalated in the aptamer on the surface of the nanoparticles and the Docetaxel is encapsulated within the bulk polymer unit for a powerful delivery method of both drugs at different release rates acting synergistically. In vitro toxicity assays have shown the targeting efficiency of these nanoparticles and the combinatorial effect of the two drugs are higher than a single drug delivery system. These targeted drug delivery nanoparticles could be used as a powerful therapeutic tool, in comparison to the single drug approach, to combat cancer cells displaying drug resistance.