pH-responsive ZIF-8-based nitazoxanide nanodelivery system for synergistic inhibition of retinoblastoma growth.

Authors

Mu Qin, Sanhua Xu, Zhengri Li, Yi Shao, Jingxiang Zhong

Published in

RSC advances. Jul 30, 2026. Epub Jul 30, 2026.

Abstract

Retinoblastoma (RB) remains a predominant intraocular malignancy in the pediatric population, and its clinical management is significantly impeded by limited blood-retinal barrier (BRB) penetration, the development of multidrug resistance, and severe systemic toxicity. This study aims to develop a novel nanodelivery system based on Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) to overcome the limited bioavailability of the antiparasitic drug nitazoxanide (NTZ), and to enhance its anti-retinoblastoma efficacy. We successfully engineered ZIF-8@NTZ nanoparticles characterized by a robust core-shell architecture. Characterization results showed that the particles exhibited high drug loading capacity (approximately 58.628%), suitable particle size (∼231 nm), and significant pH-responsive drug release properties. In vitro assays indicated that ZIF-8@NTZ exerted potent inhibition on RB cell proliferation and induced apoptosis. In vivo experiments further confirmed that ZIF-8@NTZ could significantly inhibit tumor growth. This study indicates that the ZIF-8@NTZ nanosystem provides a promising strategy for the targeted therapy of retinoblastoma.

PMID:
42534376
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 31 Jul 2026.

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