Theranostic performance of EGFR-targeted ceria-based nanoparticles on EGFR-positive cancers

EGFR is overexpressed in several cancers and hence EGFR-targeted theranostics is a promising approach to manage cancers, with widespread applicability. When nanoceria, which possesses intrinsic anticancer properties, is conjugated with EGFR-targeted fluorophore-tagged ligands, this nanoformulation can both image tumors and kill them through ROS-mediated cell destruction. Further, targeting enhances the cellular uptake of nanoparticles through EGFR-mediated endocytosis. The present work evaluates the <i>in vitro</i> theranostic performance of FITC-tagged EGF-functionalized nanoceria on EGFR-positive cancers. Three EGFR-positive cell lines were used for the study: MDA-MB-231, PANC-1 and HeLa. The EGFR-binding specificity of the EGF-functionalized nanoparticles was confirmed using western blot analysis. The therapeutic and diagnostic activities of the theranostic nanoparticles were confirmed, the former by cell viability assays and ROS measurements and the latter by confocal imaging. The results demonstrate significant ROS elevation levels for the treated cells and hence the suitability of the particles for therapeutic applications. The nanoparticles also are capable of detection using fluorescence imaging following 5 minutes of treatment, thus confirming the applicability for imaging. Hemolysis assay studies revealed excellent hemocompatibility of the nanoparticles, confirming their suitability for <i>in vivo</i> applications.