Liposome encapsulated perfluorohexane enhances radiotherapy in mice without additional oxygen supply

BACKGROUND: To investigate the effect of perfluorochemical preparations in enhancing radiotherapy, perfluocarbon nanoparticles were by encapsulating perfluorohexane into liposome [lip(PFH)]. METHODS: After intravenous injection, lip(PFH) could accumulate in the tumor site over time, with a prominent accumulation in tumor 24 h post injection. X-ray was delivered to the tumor site 24 h after the injection of lip(PFH) under room air. The experimental mice were randomized into four groups: control (saline), lip(PFH) (lip(PFH) only), X-ray (X-ray only), and lip(PFH) + X-ray (lip(PFH) with X-ray radiation). Tumor volume and histology were monitored to assess treatment efficacy. RESULTS: Tumor growth was significantly reduced in mice received lip(PFH) and X-ray compared with X-ray only. The histological data also revealed more destruction of tumor tissue in lip(PFH) + X-ray group compared with X-ray only. In addition, lip(PFH) did not show any significant tissue damage to major organs or induce significant liver/kidney dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Lip(PFH) could accumulate in the tumor site and enhance radiotherapy without additional oxygen supply.