Gold-Coated Glybosomes Mimicking Physiological Micelles for ROS-Mediated Photothermal Ablation against Cervical Cancer

Highly hydrophobic secondary bile acid, Lithocholic acid, is known for its significant roles in bile metabolism, lipid absorption, and enterohepatic circulation. Recently, emerging research has indicated its biological significance in modulating cell signaling pathways via receptors such as Farnexoid X- Receptor (FXR), G-Protein Coupled Bile acid Receptor (GPBAR) otherwise called as Takeda G protein-coupled receptor-5 (TGR5) and Vitamin-D Receptor (VDR). It has also been reported to exhibit various biological functions such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. In this study, we have developed Glybosomes (GLBs), a lithocholic acid containing liposomes through a facile method, and have subsequently coated them with gold (Au@GLB) for using them as an effective photothermal agent. The developed Glybosomes showed enhanced cytotoxicity, good biocompatibility, hemocompatibility, and promoted apoptosis against cervical cancer. Mechanistic studies also revealed that the promoted cell death was due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential, and DNA damage. These findings demonstrate that Au@GLB NPs is a promising nanoformulation for effective photothermal therapy against cervical cancer treatment.