Cobaltabis(dicarbollide) [o-COSAN]− loaded apoferritin: an innovative high-capacity boron delivery system to target tumour cells for BNCT applications

Abstract

This study describes an innovative apoferritin-based nanohybrid, Apo:[o-COSAN]⁻, as a high-capacity boron delivery system for potential application in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT). The nanohybrid is characterized by a high boron content, stability, and the promotion of biological interactions of cobaltabis(dicarbollide) ([o-COSAN]⁻), encapsulated within the apoferritin protein cavity through an acid-induced dissociation and reassembly process. The Apo:[o-COSAN]⁻ nanohybrid demonstrated enhanced boron uptake in MCF7 breast cancer and AB22 mesothelioma cell lines, with superior stability and biocompatibility under physiological conditions. Notably, AB22 cells treated with Apo:[o-COSAN]⁻ showed significant cytotoxic effects following neutron irradiation, highlighting the potential of this system in BNCT. These findings underscore the versatility of apoferritin as a multifunctional nanocarrier for targeted cancer therapy, combining high boron payloads with selective tumour cell uptake.