POR CReO FESR 2007-2013 – Linea di intervento 1.1.c. Regional R&D project dealing with targeted magnetic nano-carriers for MRI diagnosis and hyperthermia therapy on pancreatic and head & neck cancer models – closed in 2014

The idea is based on the development of a vector consisting of magnetic nanoparticles and/or gold nanorods embedded in a block copolymer (PLGA-PEG-COOH) and loaded with anticancer drugs, superficially decorated with specific targeting molecules directed towards the selected cancer cells. The chosen models are pancreatic carcinoma, through Mab-hERG monoclonal antibody (“gene related to human ether to gògò”) and head-neck carcinoma through the targeting action of EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor). The possibility of tracking the nanosystems with MRI and/or optical imaging is associated with localized hyperthermia induced by radio waves or laser radiation, giving rise to a “teranostic” approach for cancer treatment. The main project goals are therefore the conjugation of targeting units (anti-Herg and EGF) on hybrid nanocarriers and the evaluation of toxicity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics in vitro and in vivo models. Mathematical and physical models predicting the best experimental conditions will be developed as support. All the activities will be carried out following the official protocols of the Ministry of Health in terms of “regulatory affairs”; in case of positive outcomes, the results will be used as base for further preclinical and clinical trials.