A research team developed a nanoparticle that releases chemotherapeutics inside tumor cells only, sparing healthy tissues. This nanoparticle, called ZnO-nanocarrier, activates when surrounded by high acidity – a pathological feature of tumor cells.
The particle releases its chemotherapeutic load within six hours in acidic pH. During this process, the tumor cell undergoes a color change which enables doctors to see how much of the medicine has been released, and to identify the presence of tumors.
The research was based on human breast cancer cells, but the researchers believe it could be applied to any type of tumor.
Original research paper published in Scientific Reports on July 6, 2015.
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