Change in gold nanoparticle surface coatings results in distinct cytotoxic profile across various cancer models

Abstract

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) hold unique surface properties, making them interesting candidates for cancer treatments. AuNPs surface chemistry can be modified by binding thiols creating linkage points for different surface coatings. The chemical structure of the coatings regulates the interaction AuNPs have with cells and is an important determining factor in AuNP cytotoxicity. This study looked at AuNP’s functionalized with 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), and three polyethylene glycol (PEG) coatings: PEG methyl ether thiol (PEGCH3), PEG amine terminated thiol (PEGNH2) and PEG 2-mercaptoethyl ether acetic acid (PEGCOOH). The particles cytotoxic effects were compared across three cell lines: Human embryotic kidney (HEK293T/17), prostate cancer (PC-3) and ovarian cancer (SKOV3).