FORCE - DEPENDENT DRUG RELEASE SYSTEM TO ENHANCE SELECTIVE KILLING AND MINIMIZE ADVERSE EFFECTS IN CANCER TREATMENT

摘要

The disclosure provides a force-dependent drug release system. The system is configured such that the drug is only released and subsequently internalized by cancer cells, which exert at least a threshold amount of force on a DNA component of the system. The system includes a tension sensor that is used to release a chemotherapeutic agent selectively into cancer cells. The system includes a first nucleic acid single strand of DNA or DNA analog that is conjugated to a substrate, and a second nucleic acid single strand of DNA or DNA analog that is hybridized to the first single strand. The second single strand is conjugated to a cytotoxic molecule that includes a cell surface receptor ligand and a chemotherapeutic agent. The second single strand is not conjugated to the substrate. Also provided are cancer cells that display a surface receptor ligand that is bound to the cytotoxic molecule. Also provided are one or more cancer cells that have internalized a single strand conjugated to the cytotoxic molecule, but have not internalized the first strand. Also provided are methods of treating cancer by administering the system The disclosure also provides a method for treating cancer by administering to an individual in need thereof. Also provided is a method for screening or testing chemotherpeutic agents for use in the system.