Chitosan-sialic acid nanoparticles of selenium: Statistical optimization of production, characterization, and assessment of cytotoxic effects against two human glioblastoma cell lines

According to the favorable antitumor properties of selenium, this study aimed to design a novel form of selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) functionalized with chitosan (Cs) and sialic acid to assess their antitumor effects on the human glioblastoma cell lines (T98 and A172). Se NPs were synthesized in the presence of chitosan and ascorbic acid (Vc) and the synthesis conditions were optimized using response surface methodology. Se NPs@Cs were obtained with a monoclinic structure with an average diameter of 23 nm under the optimum conditions (reaction time = 30 min, chitosan concentration =1 % w/v, Vc/Se molar ratio = 5). To modify Se NP@Cs for glioblastoma treatment, sialic acid was used to cover the surface of the NPs. Sialic acid was successfully attached to the surface of Se NPs@Cs, and Se NPs@Cs-sialic acid were formed in the size range of 15-28 nm. Se NPs@Cs-sialic acid were stable for approximately 60 days at 4 celcius. The as-synthesized NPs exerted inhibitory effects on T98 greater than 3 T3 > A172 cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner. Additionally, sialic acid ameliorated the blood biocompatibility of Se NPs@Cs. Taken together, sialic acid improved both the stability and biological activity of Se NPs@Cs.

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess the antitumor effects of selenium nanoparticles functionalized with chitosan and sialic acid on human glioblastoma cell lines. Sialic acid successfully improved the stability and biological activity of the nanoparticles.