Facile Production of Hafnium Dioxide@Heme Nanocomposites for CT Imaging and Synergistic Radiosensitization

Improving the quality of X-ray imaging and radiation therapy is crucial to the efficacy of cancer treatments. Recently, hafnium dioxide nanoparticles (HfO2 NPs) have been approved in the European Union as a radiosensitizer and are currently in clinical trials in the United States. This is based on hafnium’s ability to amplify local radiation doses by converting X-rays into high energy electrons; however, this only represents one strategy to sensitize cancer to radiation therapy. This project will evaluate hemoglobin-coated HfO2 NPs (HfO2@Heme) for their ability to act as superior agents for image-guided radiation therapy. This is based on the oxygen-delivery and radical generation capabilities of hemoglobin, which can independently enhance the damage caused by radiation. A novel synthesis route using a domestic microwave and oven will also be evaluated to reduce overall production costs. The efficacy of radiosensitization will be compared to an established radiotherapy drug (cisplatin) and conventional HfO2 NPs using a radiation-resistant prostate-cancer cell line. Nanomaterial toxicity and biocompatibility will be evaluated using a non-cancerous cell line. Imaging efficacy will be evaluated by comparing X-ray absorbance (contrast) to equivalent concentrations of commercial contrast materials. Overall, we predict the development of the HfO2@Heme nanocomposites to represent a low-cost and effective approach to enhance cancer treatments. This project will establish foundational data for the development of further clinical trials that may significantly enhance patient outcomes. Consequently, the technology developed in this research will also be beneficial to Canada’s medical industry and regulators.

Faculty Supervisor:

Mark Servos;Xu Zhang

Student:

Partner:

Grand River Hospital

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: