CHITOSAN-COATED GOLD NANOPARTICLES FOR TARGETED DELIVERY OF DOXORUBICIN IN LIVER CANCER THERAPY

Abstract

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are widely recognized for their biocompatibility, surface functionalization, and potential in drug delivery. In this study, doxorubicin-loaded, chitosan-coated AuNPs (CS–AuNP–DOX) were synthesized and evaluated for targeted therapy against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2 cells). The nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Drug loading efficiency and release kinetics were studied under physiological (pH 7.4) and tumor-mimicking acidic conditions (pH 5.0). Results showed spherical nanoparticles (~25 nm) with high stability and ~78% drug encapsulation efficiency. Sustained, pH-responsive release of doxorubicin was observed, with accelerated release under acidic conditions. In vitro cytotoxicity and apoptosis assays confirmed that CS–AuNP–DOX significantly reduced HepG2 viability compared to free doxorubicin, with enhanced apoptotic induction. Hemocompatibility studies demonstrated minimal hemolysis (<5%), indicating biosafety. Overall, CS–AuNP–DOX nanoparticles show promise as a targeted nanocarrier system for liver cancer therapy.