Lutetium Fluoride (LuF₃) Nanoparticles As Promising Nanoradiosensitizers for Melanoma Therapy

Results are presented from studying physicochemical characteristics and radiosensitizing properties of a new type of lutetium fluoride (LuF₃) nanoparticle as a promising nanoradiosensitizer for X-ray irradiation of B16/F10 melanoma cells. A comprehensive analysis is performed of functional characteristics of synthesized LuF₃ nanoparticles, their cytotoxicity, and their radiosensitizing effect in vitro. It is shown that LuF₃ nanoparticles have a hydrodynamic diameter of less than 200 nm. Colloidal sol obtained on their basis is highly stable as a result of using the biocompatible stabilizer ammonium citrate. LuF₃ nanoparticles have a cytotoxic and radiosensitizing effect on melanoma cells in concentrations of 116 mg/mL and higher by reducing their metabolic activity and membrane mitochondrial potential while initiating apoptosis. Such nanomaterial can form the basis of promising modern approaches to increasing the effectiveness of radiation therapy.