Abstract:
Our aim is to make a nanoparticle preparation that shows maximum efficacy and
selectivity towards cancerous cells. We want to achieve the least side effects possible. This can be
done through nanoparticles since they improve drug penetration through passive targeting of
cancer cells through enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and can give high efficacy
with minimum doses. Furthermore, a radioactive material will be added forming a radionuclide.
The radionuclide aids as a therapeutic agent and in diagnosing and monitoring as well, giving a
theranostic effect. We aspire to achieve this through preparing a nanoparticle preparation with a
metallic zinc core using zinc oxide with I-131 as the radioactive material. Regarding zinc oxide
nanoparticles, it has selective cytotoxicity towards tumor cells compared with other nanoparticles.
ZnO cytotoxicity is inversely proportional with the nanoparticles size and this can be easily
controlled in comparison to other nanoparticles because of its ease and straightforwardness of
synthesis. It also shows good biocompatibility and biodegradability that provide safer use. In
addition, it has good morphology presented in its spherical shape that help in their renal clearance
from the blood and prevent their accumulation in the liver. After preparing the ZnO nanoparticles,
characterization is done by determining particles diameter using Transmission Electron
Microscope (TEM), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) is used to determine the average particle
size and the zeta potential is determined using Photo correlation spectrometer (PCS). The
succeeding steps are radiolabeling yield determination, in-vitro cytotoxicity study and in-vivo
study on mice.
