Novel thermal tumor ablation for breast cancer in mice using magnetic nanoparticles

• Published in: Cancer research (Chicago, Ill.) Ill.), 2009-01, Vol.69 (2_Supplement), p.2158
• Main Authors: Motomura, K, Ishitobi, M, Komoike, Y, Koyama, H, Inaji, H, Inoue, M, Nagae, H, Nagano, I
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0008-5472; 1538-7445
• DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.SABCS-2158

Abstract #2158 Background: Thermal ablation therapy using lasers, ultrasound and microwaves is being investigated as a less invasive alternative to surgery for breast cancer. This study examined the efficacy of magnetic nanoparticles, which produce heat when exposed to an alternating magnetic field, for the destruction of breast cancer in mice.
 Material and Methods: Tumors were induced on both sides of the back of BALB/C mice by subcutaneous injection of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Magnetic nanoparticles were injected in and around one of the tumors in a mouse, while saline were injected in another tumor (control). Mice were exposed to an alternating magnetic field for 40 min. The temperature of the tumor injected with nanoparticles reached 45°C and was maintained at that temperature by adjusting the magnetic field intensity. Histopathological response was evaluated one to two months after thermal ablation therapy.
 Results: In 8 (67%) of 12 mice, complete tumor regression was observed in tumors treated with nanoparticle injection, while there was no regression in control tumors in any of the mice. There was no irreversible damage seen in normal tissue surrounding the nanoparticle injected tumors.
 Discussion: Since this procedure can destroy cancer cells specifically without injuring normal tissue, it may be applicable to the treatment of human breast cancer. Moreover, it may be possible to develop this procedure into a systemic therapy for tumor-specific targeting. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 2158.