Preparation and characterization of pH-responsive Zein-ZnPc-PDA/HA nanoparticles intended for tumor therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a non-invasive modality where photosensitizer (PS) plays an indispensable role for treating tumors. This study proposes a novel Zein nanoparticle (ZP) encapsulating Zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc) that targets tumor through intravenous delivery. The ZPs were prepared by phase separation process. Modification of ZPs were realized through encapsulation of polydopamine (PDA) and hyaluronic acid (HA) in order to maintain photothermal, pH-responsive, and tumor-targeting properties. The physiochemical properties, in vitro release, and in vitro evaluation of photothermal and photodynamic effects were studied. The biosafety was analyzed through cytotoxicity assay using human lung cancer cell line A549 as model. The excellent biosafety and significant anti-tumor effect demonstrated that the novel ZPs can be potential candidates for the alternative treatment of cancer.