Abstract
The present study explores the potential of sorafenib (SOR) and atorvastatin (ATST) to induce a ferroptosis and apoptosis-based hybrid cell death mechanism. The synergistic ATST + SOR combination was delivered through Glutamine-tagged PLGA nanoparticles (ATST + SOR/G-PLGA NPs) to promote intratumoral specificity. The formulation was optimized using DesignExpert® software by adopting Box-Behnken design (BBD). The optimized ATST + SOR/G-PLGA NPs had a spherical particle size of ~ 178.3 ± 12.6 nm, a PDI of 0.151 ± 0.08, and a Z-potential of -24.8 ± 5.8 mV. The formulation revealed a biphasic sustained release with higher release at acidic pH. In-vitro biological assessment showed a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability with reduced IC50 values. In the presence of ferrostatin-1, the IC50 value was significantly increased. The exposure to ATST + SOR/G-PLGA NPs led to elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), increased late apoptotic/necrotic cells, and mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Pharmacokinetic study revealed a 2.63- and 2.93-fold improved AUC0-∞, and 2.58- and 2.84-fold improvement in MRT as compared to free SOR and ATST. Preclinical efficacy study showed a marked reduction in tumor volume and a higher inhibition rate. Toxicity assessment revealed no signs of systemic or organ toxicity, implying suitability of formulation for in-vivo delivery. In a nutshell, the proposed strategy offers a powerful avenue to manage advanced malignancies by inducing a hybrid cell death mechanism. Also, the nutrient transporter targeted polymeric nanosystems present an effective approach, which warrants further investigation.