Copper complex nanoformulations featuring highly promising therapeutic potential in murine melanoma models

Jacinta O. Pinho, Joana D. Amaral, Rui E. Castro, Cecília M.P. Rodrigues, Angela Casini, Graça Soveral, Maria Manuela Gaspar

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

46 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aim: Preclinical evaluation of a cytotoxic copper (II) complex formulated in long circulating nanoliposomes for melanoma treatment. Materials & methods: Liposomal nanoformulations of the copper complex were characterized in terms of thermodynamic behavior (differential scanning calorimeter), pH-sensitivity (spectrophotometry) and antiproliferative effects against murine melanoma B16F10 cells in vitro. Preclinical studies were performed in a C57BL/6 syngeneic melanoma model. Results: Nanoformulations were thermodynamically stable, and CHEMS-containing nanoliposomes were pH-sensitive and preserved the antiproliferative properties of the copper compound. These nanoformulations significantly impaired tumor progression in vivo, devoid of toxic side effects, compared with control mice or mice treated with the free metallodrug. Conclusion: Copper complex-containing nanoliposomes demonstrate high anticancer efficacy and safety, constituting a step forward to the development of more effective therapeutic strategies against melanoma.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)835-850
Number of pages16
JournalNanomedicine
Volume14
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • copper 1,10-phenanthroline complex
  • melanoma
  • nanoliposomes
  • pH-triggered delivery
  • syngeneic murine model

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