Laser-activated PLGA theranostic agents for cancer therapy in vivo

Poly (lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) particles are biocompatible FDA approved materials that can be used for diagnostic and therapy applications. Micron-sized PLGA particles were synthesized with gold nanoparticles and DiI dye within the PLGA shell, and perfluorohexane liquid (PFH) in the core. The liquid core is activated upon laser irradiation, resulting in a rapidly expanding microbubble; damage to surrounding cells and tissue can occur. The effect of the particles for anticancer therapy was examined in rabbits with metastasized squamous carcinoma in the lymph nodes. After laser irradiation, decreased blood perfusion and necrotic regions were observed for rabbits treated with the PLGA particles compared to the control. Electron microscopy and histology confirmed damage within the lymph nodes; disrupted cells were observed throughout, slowing the tumor growth rate. This study demonstrates the capability of PLGA particles containing PFC liquids as theranostic agents in-vivo.