Host Institution:
Sabancı University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM)
Supervisor:
Sibel Cetinel, PhD
Co-Supervisor:
Safacan Kölemen, PhD
Project Name:
Multimodal Therapy Approach for Retinoblastoma Using Hyaluronic Acid-Au-Fe3O4 Loaded with Carboplatin and Muramyl Dipeptide
Project Summary:
This project focuses on developing a targeted multimodal nanotherapy for retinoblastoma, a rare pediatric eye cancer. The approach involves the synthesis of a hybrid nanocomposite using hyaluronic acid-functionalized gold (Au) and magnetite (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles, co-loaded with carboplatin, a chemotherapy drug, and muramyl dipeptide, an immune-stimulating agent. Hyaluronic acid serves as a targeting moiety, enhancing selective uptake by CD44 receptor-overexpressing retinoblastoma cells. The Au–Fe₃O₄ core offers both therapeutic and diagnostic (theranostic) capabilities, combining chemotherapy, immunomodulation, and potential magnetic or photothermal applications in one platform. The nanocomposite is engineered for enhanced cellular uptake, controlled drug release, and minimized systemic toxicity. Through in vitro and in vivo studies, the project aims to evaluate the cytotoxic, immunological, and anti-tumor efficacy of the formulation, advancing a synergistic and effective treatment strategy for retinoblastoma.