Niosomes loaded with gold nanoparticles for enhanced radiation therapy in lung cancer

Aim: The present investigation aimed to develop niosomes containing gold nanoparticles (Nio-AuNPs) and to evaluate the combinational effect of Nio-AuNPs and x-ray radiation therapy (XRT) on growth inhibition potential and induction of apoptosis in the A549 cell line. Materials & methods: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized, and niosomes were prepared using the thin-film hydration method. Various techniques were employed to determine their physiochemical characteristics. MTT assay, cell apoptosis analysis and combination index analysis were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic feasibility of Nio-AuNPs combined with XRT. Results: The combination of Nio-AuNPs and XRT resulted in greater cytotoxicity compared with XRT alone or with AuNPs. Conclusion: The AuNPs-loaded niosomal formulation enhances the efficacy of XRT on lung cancer cells in vitro, presenting a promising and effective therapeutic strategy.