Russian scientists develop nanoparticle platform to enhance radiotherapy

MOSCOW, 2 March (BelTA - TV BRICS) - Researchers from National Research Saratov State University, in collaboration with the Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Institute of Biochemistry and Physiology of Plants and Microorganisms of the Russian Academy of Sciences, have designed a platform based on cerium dioxide (CeO2) nanoparticles to boost the effectiveness of radiotherapy. The approach enhances radiation-induced damage to tumour cells without increasing the overall dose, according to the universuty's website.

The team addressed a key limitation of CeO2 nanoparticles: their low stability in aqueous environments, which reduces bioavailability. To overcome this, the researchers encased the particles in a siloxane shell, a silicon oxide-based compound. This coating maintains particle stability in water and physiological solutions, prevents aggregation, and preserves the nanoparticles’ active centres, ensuring that their radiosensitising properties remain fully functional.

“We have developed nanoparticles that make tumour radiotherapy more efficient without increasing radiation exposure. In simple terms, we help radiation ‘hit’ cancer cells more precisely,” explained Olga Goryacheva, lead researcher at the Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry at Saratov State University.

For tracking their behaviour within cells, the team tagged the nanoparticles with a luminescent marker. This revealed effective uptake and accumulation within cancer cells. During irradiation, the particles amplify the formation of reactive oxygen species, damaging key structures such as mitochondria, which supply energy to the cells. As a result, cancer cells lose the ability to survive and divide, while normal cells remain largely unaffected, highlighting the method’s potential to reduce side effects.

The siloxane shell also opens the door to further functionalisation, including selective targeting of specific tumour types or the addition of diagnostic markers. Researchers believe that, with further development and extensive preclinical and clinical testing, this approach could lead to safer and more effective radiotherapy options.