Hybrid System of Magnetic Nanoparticles and Cashew-Gum Nanoparticles Induce Apoptosis and Tumor Necrosis in Colorectal Cancer

Current therapies for colorectal cancer (CRC) are often limited by drug resistance, systemic toxicity, and tumor recurrence. To address these challenges, a multifunctional nanosystem for enhanced drug delivery was developed. The system is composed of cashew gum nanoparticles (CGNPs) coloaded with oxaliplatin (OXA) and retinoic acid (RA), combined with magnetic core-shell nanoparticles (CSNPs). Following synthesis and characterization, <i>in vitro</i> assays in CT-26 cells showed efficient nanoparticle internalization and significant dose-dependent viability reduction, with magnetic stimulation increasing late apoptosis. <i>In vivo</i> studies using a murine CRC model revealed enhanced tumor necrosis, reduced anaplastic cell frequency, suppressed COX-2 expression, and altered oxidative stress markers, such as SOD and GPX-1. Although tumor volume did not differ significantly between groups, histological and molecular analyses confirmed substantial antitumor effects, particularly with RA-functionalized formulations. The data suggest magnetic stimulation improved nanoparticle uptake, while RA acted as both a cytotoxic agent and a modulator of cellular uptake and inflammation. Overall, the nanosystem promoted apoptosis, tumor necrosis, and biochemical modulation. These findings lay a promising foundation for future research to investigate the nanosystem's biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and synergistic effects with immunotherapeutic agents.