Insights into tumor size-dependent nanoparticle accumulation using deformed organosilica nanoprobes

Abstract

Silica-based nanoplatforms have revolutionized cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies, but the influence of tumor physiology on the efficacy of these nanoplatforms remains underexplored. This study presents a deformed organosilica fluorescent nanoprobe (CDPF) conjugated with folic acid (FA) and a fluorescent dye (Cy5.5) to explore NP uptake in tumors of varying sizes, mimicking different cancer stages. CDPF exhibited excellent biocompatibility, as demonstrated by cell toxicity tests and blood routine analyses. Using a 4T1 tumor model in female BALB/c mice, we observed a direct correlation between tumor size and CDPF accumulation, with larger tumors showing significantly higher NP uptake. Histological analysis revealed that vascular density and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling were key factors in NP accumulation. These findings highlight the critical role of tumor microenvironment dynamics in NP delivery and efficacy, underscoring the need for personalized nanomedicine strategies. The study advances the understanding of NP–tumor interactions and proposes deformed organosilica nanocapsules as promising vehicles for targeted cancer therapy, paving the way for more effective treatment modalities.