Development of a novel drug delivery system based on CDC42 inhibitor-loaded nanoparticles for targeted colorectal cancer therapy

Project goal:
The goal of the project is to develop a new drug delivery system based on PEG-PLGA nanoparticles containing Cdc42 inhibitor (CASIN) loaded into a thermosensitive liquid rectal suppository for targeted therapy of colorectal cancer.

Project tasks:

1. Synthesis and characterization of PEG-PLGA nanoparticles containing a Cdc42 inhibitor
2. Evaluation of the effect of PLGA-PEG-CASIN nanoparticles on the viability, migratory and invasive potential of colorectal cancer cells.
3. Development and characterization of thermosensitive enemas loaded with PLGA-PEG-CASIN nanoparticles.
4. Evaluation of the effect of PLGA-PEG-CASIN nanoparticles loaded into thermosensitive enemas on the viability, migratory and invasive potential of colorectal cancer cells.
5. In vivo evaluation of distribution and retention of PLGA-PEG nanoparticles loaded into thermosensitive enemas

Abstract: Cdc42 is abnormally expressed in colorectal cancer and promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, Cdc42 is a promising target for targeted cancer therapy. However, commercially available Cdc42 inhibitors have low bioavailability and are rapidly eliminated from the body. In this regard, it is necessary to develop a drug delivery system for small molecules of Cdc42 inhibitors. In this project, we propose to develop a rectal system based on PEG-PLGA nanoparticles loaded with a Cdc42 inhibitor, which can effectively pass through the mucus and deliver the drug to the cells, as a temperature-sensitive gel. It will facilitate the effective distribution and retention of nanoparticles in the intestine.