Scientists at Sechenov University have developed a new drug delivery system capable of enhancing the antitumor effect and targeting tumor cells that are resistant to standard chemotherapy in Ewing’s sarcoma. The research results have been published in the journal Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology and Medicine.
To overcome drug resistance, the researchers used microparticles based on lactoferrin — a natural protein with high biocompatibility and the ability to interact with tumor cells. They then combined these with chondroitin sulfate to create a stable delivery system, into which they loaded a carbonic anhydrase II inhibitor — an experimental antitumor compound, OX72. This combination ensured the protection of the drug and its targeted release within the tumor tissue.
“Ewing’s sarcoma often stops responding to standard chemotherapy. We have shown that the use of lactoferrin microparticles in combination with a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor makes it possible to activate an alternative mechanism of tumor cell death — ferroptosis. This provides a foundation for developing new therapeutic approaches for drug-resistant forms of the disease,” noted Professor Ilya Ulasov, Leading Research Fellow at the Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov University.