Synthesis, In Vitro Testing, and Biodistribution of Surfactant-Free Radioactive Nanoparticles for Cancer Treatment

Abstract

New forms of cancer treatment, which are effective, have simple manufacturing processes, and easily transportable, are of the utmost necessity. In this work, a methodology for the synthesis of radioactive Gold-198 nanoparticles without the use of surfactants was described. The nuclear activated Gold-198 foils were transformed into H198AuCl4 by dissolution using aqua regia, following a set of steps in a specially designed leak-tight setup. Gold-198 nanoparticles were synthesized using a citrate reduction stabilized with PEG. In addition, TEM results for the non-radioactive product presented an average size of 11.0 nm. The DLS and results for the radioactive 198AuNPs presented an average size of 8.7 nm. Moreover, the DLS results for the PEG-198AuNPs presented a 32.6 nm average size. Cell line tests showed no cytotoxic effect in any period and the concentrations were evaluated. Furthermore, in vivo testing showed a high biological uptake in the tumor and a cancer growth arrest.

Radioactive gold nanoparticles coated with BSA: A promising approach for prostate cancer treatment

“…In situ preparation of chloroauric acid from previously irradiated and activated gold is termed as the synthesis of the mother solution, as reported previously 7 . This synthesis is performed in a sealed chemical reactor which was previously purged with a water filter to prevent the entry of impurities.…”

“…In many of these works, the common practice is to use commercial chloroauric acid as a precursor. However, this approach is not suitable for producing radioactive nanoparticles through neutron activation in a nuclear reactor, leading us to develop a unique synthesis route for this purpose 7 . When venturing into nanoparticle synthesis, the choice of method varies according to the intended application.…”