Macrophages as carriers of boron carbide nanoparticles dedicated to boron neutron capture therapy

Abstract

Abstract Background The use of cells as carriers for the delivery of nanoparticles is a promising approach in anticancer therapy, mainly due to their natural properties, such as biocompatibility and non-immunogenicity. Cellular carriers prevent the rapid degradation of nanoparticles, improve their distribution, reduce cytotoxicity and ensure selective delivery to the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we propose the use of phagocytic cells as boron carbide nanoparticle carriers for boron delivery to the tumor microenvironment in boron neutron capture therapy. Results Macrophages originating from cell lines and bone marrow showed a greater ability to interact with boron carbide (B 4 C) than dendritic cells, especially the preparation containing larger nanoparticles (B 4 C 2). Consequently, B 4 C 2 caused greater toxicity and induced the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by these cells. However, migration assays demonstrated that macrophages loaded with B 4 C 1 migrated more efficiently than with B 4 C 2. Therefore, smaller nanoparticles (B 4 C 1) with lower toxicity but similar ability to activate macrophages proved to be more attractive. Conclusions Macrophages could be promising cellular carriers for boron carbide nanoparticle delivery, especially B 4 C 1 to the tumor microenvironment and thus prospective use in boron neutron capture therapy. Graphical Abstract