Senolytic nanoplatform to target and eliminate skin cancer Zombie cells - Nano4Zombie

Project summary

Need: With increased age, there is an increase in senescent cells(SC) which can contribute to tumorigenesis. Elimination of cancer-associated SC is a new promising approach to prevent or delay cancer recurrence. However, many of the drugs used as senolytics have shown adverse effects at high doses in clinical trials or low activity. Novel strategies to increase selectivity, bioavailability and activity are needed in order to enhance the effectiveness and safety. Aims: i)Develop new quercetin derivatives with improved action towards cancer SC;ii) Develop a nanoplatform to eradicate skin cancer SC by combining magnetic hyperthermia and senolytic drugs. iii) Analyse the functional effects of SC-derived extracellular vesicles released from treated and untreated skin cancer SC on cells constituting the tumour microenvironment. Application: Aside from a novel and promising anticancer strategy, it could be expanded to other areas such as ageing. Impact: New method to eliminate skin cancer SC.