Carbon nanotube-delivered iC9 suicide gene therapy for killing breast cancer cells in vitro

Abstract

Aim: To induce a safe death to MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line through gene therapy based on iC9 suicide gene. Materials & methods: To induce apoptosis to MCF-7 cell line, iC9 gene was transfected using pyridine-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Then, to enhance chemotherapy, iC9 suicide gene therapy was performed alongside. Results: The results show that the MCF-7 cells were efficiently eliminated in a high percentage by this approach. Furthermore, the suicide gene by itself/in combination with the chemotherapeutic drugs managed to pass the cell cycle arrests. Conclusion: We introduced an in vitro treatment approach based on suicide gene therapy and the first step was taken toward the enhancement of chemotherapy, although more investigation is required.