Abstract
In this study, the ability of methotrexate (MTX)-loaded stimuli-responsive novel silica nanocomposites (MSNs) (with mean diameter of ± 60 nm) in the induction of apoptosis, and change in the Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA levels, were investigated. MTT assay and RT -PCR analysis were performed on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, to evaluate their anti-proliferative, apoptotic and anti-apoptotic effects. MTX-loaded MSNs caused marked decrease in the percentage of viable cells, with a significant down-regulation in the level of expression of the anti-apoptotic gene (Bcl-2), and up-regulation in the apoptotic gene (Bax). MTX-loaded MSNs increased the efficacy of the chemotherapeutic agents in the inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.