Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have generated interest as both imaging and therapeutic agents. AuNPs are attractive for imaging applications since they are nontoxic and provide nearly three times greater X-ray attenuation per unit weight than iodine. As therapeutic agents, AuNPs can sensitize tumor cells to ionizing radiation. To create a nanoplatform that could simultaneously exhibit long circulation times, achieve appreciable tumor accumulation, generate computed tomography (CT) image contrast, and serve as a radiosensitizer, gold-loaded polymeric micelles (GPMs) were prepared. Specifically, 1.9 nm AuNPs were encapsulated within the hydrophobic core of micelles formed with the amphiphilic diblock copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(ε-capralactone). GPMs were produced with low polydispersity and mean hydrodynamic diameters ranging from 25 to 150 nm. Following intravenous injection, GPMs provided blood pool contrast for up to 24 h and improved the delineation of tumor margins via CT. Thus, GPM-enhanced CT imaging was used to guide radiation therapy delivered via a small animal radiation research platform. In combination with the radiosensitizing capabilities of gold, tumor-bearing mice exhibited a 1.7-fold improvement in the median survival time, compared with mice receiving radiation alone. It is envisioned that translation of these capabilities to human cancer patients could guide and enhance the efficacy of radiation therapy.
Al Zaki A, Joh D, Cheng Z, De Barros AL, Kao G, Dorsey J, Tsourkas A.
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Xstrahl to Highlight Superficial and Orthovoltage Radiotherapy Solutions for Skin Cancer and Selective Benign Conditions at ACRO Summit 2025 in Las Vegas
Xstrahl, a global leader in the delivery of superficial radiation therapy devices and preclinical radiation research systems, will demonstrate Xstrahl 200, a modern orthovoltage radiotherapy solution for treating superficial lesions, skin cancers, and selective benign conditions. Visit Xstrahl at booth 220 at the ACRO Summit 2025 – The Radiation Oncology Summit located at Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas, NV from March 12-15, 2025.
