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CeF3-ZnO scintillating nanocomposite for self-lighted photodynamic therapy of cancer

  • Engineering and Nano-engineering Approaches for Medical Devices
  • Original Research
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Abstract

We report on the synthesis and characterization of a composite nanostructure based on the coupling of cerium fluoride (CeF3) and zinc oxide (ZnO) for applications in self-lighted photodynamic therapy. Self-lighted photodynamic therapy is a novel approach for the treatment of deep cancers by low doses of X-rays. CeF3 is an efficient scintillator: when illuminated by X-rays it emits UV light by fluorescence at 325 nm. In this work, we simulate this effect by exciting directly CeF3 fluorescence by UV radiation. ZnO is photo-activated in cascade, to produce reactive oxygen species. This effect was recently demonstrated in a physical mixture of distinct nanoparticles of CeF3 and ZnO [Radiat. Meas. (2013) 59:139–143]. Oxide surface provides a platform for rational functionalization, e.g., by targeting molecules for specific tumors. Our composite nanostructure is stable in aqueous media with excellent optical coupling between the two components; we characterize its uptake and its good cell viability, with very low intrinsic cytotoxicity in dark.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Physics and Earth Science Department, Parma University, Parco Area delle Scienze 7/A, Parma, 43124, Italy

    Tiziano Rimoldi, Davide Orsi & Luigi Cristofolini

  2. IMEM-CNR Institute, Parco Area delle Scienze 37/A, Parma, 43124, Italy

    Paola Lagonegro, Francesca Rossi & Giancarlo Salviati

  3. Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Sciences, Parma University, via Gramsci 14, Parma, 43124, Italy

    Benedetta Ghezzi & Carlo Galli

Authors
  1. Tiziano Rimoldi
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  2. Davide Orsi
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  3. Paola Lagonegro
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  4. Benedetta Ghezzi
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  5. Carlo Galli
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  6. Francesca Rossi
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  7. Giancarlo Salviati
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  8. Luigi Cristofolini
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Correspondence to Luigi Cristofolini.

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Rimoldi, T., Orsi, D., Lagonegro, P. et al. CeF3-ZnO scintillating nanocomposite for self-lighted photodynamic therapy of cancer. J Mater Sci: Mater Med 27, 159 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10856-016-5769-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10856-016-5769-3

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