bismuth oxide nanoparticles

Bismuth oxide nanoparticles (BiONPs) are high-Z metallic nanoparticles being investigated as potent radiosensitizers for cancer therapy, particularly in the treatment of breast and colon cancers. Due to the high atomic number of bismuth (Z=83), these nanoparticles exhibit a high mass-energy absorption coefficient, which triggers significant photon absorption and the release of secondary electrons (such as Auger electrons) when exposed to ionizing radiation like iridium-192 brachytherapy. This physical interaction leads to an localized enhancement of the radiation dose within the tumor. Additionally, BiONPs facilitate the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce oxidative stress and subsequent DNA damage, leading to cell death. Research suggests they can be used synergistically with chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin to overcome radioresistance in aggressive tumor models while potentially allowing for lower radiation doses to spare surrounding healthy tissue.

Other names

bismuth(III) oxide nanoparticlesBi2O3 nanoparticlesBi-2O3 nanoparticlesBi 2O3 nanoparticles