Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel for Glioblastoma Using Solid Lipid Nanoparticles

• Grant number: 25/01678-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Condensed Matter Physics
• Principal Investigator: Valtencir Zucolotto
• Grantee: Lorena do Espírito Santo Costa
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent primary malignant brain tumor, characterized by poor prognosis and low long-term survival rates. Despite advancements in multimodal therapies and a deeper understanding of its biology, treatment remains challenging due to the presence of glioma stem cells, which confer resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as the blood-brain barrier and the immune-privileged status of the central nervous system. These factors highlight the urgent need for targeted therapeutic strategies. In this context, the present study aims to develop more effective and less toxic therapies for GBM treatment by utilizing solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) functionalized with the RGD peptide to enhance the targeted delivery of the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel (PTX) to tumor cells. This approach seeks to optimize local drug concentration, reduce adverse effects, and improve therapeutic efficacy. The SLNs will be synthesized through hot homogenization with the assistance of a sonicator, and the RGD peptide will be conjugated to PTX via EDC/NHS coupling. The RGD-PTX complex will then be incorporated into the nanoparticles, forming the SLN-PTX-RGD system, which will be characterized and evaluated in glioma tumor cell lines (U-87). This project aims to contribute to the development of novel therapies for GBM, with the potential to significantly improve clinical outcomes and the quality of life for patients affected by this condition.