Improve the cytotoxic effects of megavoltage radiation treatment by Fe3O4@Cus–PEG nanoparticles as a novel radiosensitizer in colorectal cancer cells

Abstract Background To enhance the performance of radiotherapy, emerging nanoparticles that can professionally X-ray irradiation to destruct cancer cells are extremely necessary. Here, we examined potential PEG-coated magnetite copper sulfide hetero-nanoparticles (Fe 3 O 4 @Cus–PEG) as a radiosensitizer agent. Methods Fe @Cus–PEG were synthesized and characterized. The toxicity on HT-29 colorectal was assessed by MTT assay. radio-sensitizing effects investigated colony formation assays. Moreover, underlying mechanisms for improve radiation sensitivity evaluated. Results results demonstrated enhanced in dose-dependent manner. combined treatments (nanoparticles radiation) strongly synergistic. sensitizing enhancement ratio (SER) 2.02. Our vitro assays nitric oxide production, intracellular hydrogen peroxide concentration, expression level Bax Caspase-3 genes significantly increased treated with combination radiation. Whereas, Glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity Bcl-2 gene treatment decreased compared alone. Conclusions study suggests promising nano agents efficacy therapy through increasing reactive oxygen species generation, inducing apoptosis. Graphical