SCNP-FA

SCNP-FA is an experimental radio-activated nanoparticle therapeutic consisting of LiYF4:Ce3+ nanophosphors conjugated with folic acid (FA) via a photocleavable linker. Developed by researchers at National Cheng Kung University, SCNP-FA is designed to target folate receptors (FR), which are overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. Upon internalization via receptor-mediated endocytosis, the nanoparticles are triggered by radiation to release folic acid, which subsequently induces cell death through ferroptosis. This process is mediated by the inhibition of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxides. Additionally, SCNP-FA treatment leads to mitochondrial dysfunction and promotes an immunogenic tumor microenvironment by increasing the presence of dendritic cells, T cells, and NK cells, and facilitating the repolarization of M2 macrophages to the M1 phenotype.

Other names

LiYF4:Ce3+ nanoparticles conjugated with folic acidfolate receptor-guided nanoparticles