Tumor-targeted astaxanthin nanoparticles for therapeutic application in vitro

In recent years, with the development of molecular biology, the exploration and development of targeted drugs for cancer has gradually attracted widespread attention. Here, tumor-targeted astaxanthin nanoparticle, cRGD-PEG2000-DSPE encapsulated astaxanthin (cRGD@AST) was designed and applied for tumor therapy. Firstly, cRGD@AST can improve the water solubility of astaxanthin. Secondly, cRGD@AST can achieve tumor-targeted ability after cRGD modification and can be highly absorbed by HepG2 cells. Finally, cRGD@AST can scavenge excess ROS in tumor cells, restore the redox balance in cells, and inhibit tumor cell proliferation. It provides theoretical basis and experimental basis for the development and utilization of natural product antioxidants for cancer prevention and treatment.