Anti-neoplastic nano-therapy. Zinc oxide nanoparticles to convey biological macromolecules in mammalian cells: cytotoxic action and induction of autophagy.
| Componente | Categoria |
|---|---|
| Elena De Santis | Componenti il gruppo di ricerca / Participants in the research project |
| Alessandra Zicari | Componenti il gruppo di ricerca / Participants in the research project |
| Stefania Mardente | Componenti il gruppo di ricerca / Participants in the research project |
The use of nanotechnology-based products has been recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. A major increase in the use of nano-materials in medicine, food industry and cosmetic is expected in the following years.
In this context, our project aims to detail the modalities of interaction and the molecular effects of nano (Zn-NP) particles of zinc oxide (ZnO) on tumor cells.
Initially, we will detail the mechanisms of interaction between Zn-NP and the plasmamembrane. Next, we will proceed with an ultrastructural study of their intracellular localization. Afterwards, we will analyze the molecular aspects of Zn-NP exposure with a particular attention to the activation of the autophagic process. Finally, we will set up pilot experiments to explore the possibility for a nano-vehiculation of antibodies or anti-microRNA molecules in tumor cells by Zn-NP.
In conclusion our study will allow to study the effects of nano and micro-particles of ZnO on tumor cells providing the rationale for the development of an anti-tumoral nanotherapy.