Abstract 5758: Gold nanoparticles with graphene quantum dots as drug delivery platforms for anticancer applications

Abstract Cancer is a global health challenge that has a profound impact on the lives of people worldwide, either directly affecting individuals or their loved ones. Among the various types of cancer, prostate cancer stands out as one of the most prevalent in men. Prostate cancer is primarily identified by symptoms related to urinary health. Conventional medical approaches often rely on drug-based treatments to address this form of cancer. However, like many treatments, drug therapy comes with its own set of challenges. In our research project, we propose an alternative approach for managing prostate cancer. Our innovative idea centers around utilizing nanoparticles as a means of drug delivery. Specifically, we are investigating the use of Taxol, also known as Paclitaxel, as the drug of interest. Taxol possesses a significant challenge due to its hydrophobic nature, which hinders its circulation within the bloodstream. Its solubility is extremely low, at 0.00025 mg per milliliter. To overcome this limitation, we have undertaken the synthesis and integration of AuNPs (gold nanoparticles) with GQDs (graphene quantum dots). This combination enhances the drug's hydrophilic properties, making it more effective in transportation. Our research has led us to conduct experiments on prostate cancer cells (specifically the PC3 cell line). We aim to compare the IC50 value, which represents the drug concentration required to kill 50% of the cancer cells, when using the drug alone versus when using the drug in conjunction with the nanoparticles. Taxol's IC50 value is determined to be 5.73nM. In addition to assessing the impact on cancer cells, we have also examined how the nanoparticles interact with blood, and how this interaction influences the morphology of red blood cells. Furthermore, we have characterized the system using various analytical techniques, including FTIR, NMR, Fluorescence, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. To pinpoint the accumulation sites of the drug and delivery agents, we have employed confocal microscopy on the cancer cells. Our ultimate objective is to equip the drug with the necessary components to facilitate its entry into prostate cancer cells effectively. Citation Format: Fabiola M. Rosa Suárez, Gerardo Morell, Brad Weiner, Nataniel Medina, Wenndy Pantoja. Gold nanoparticles with graphene quantum dots as drug delivery platforms for anticancer applications [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5758.