Sonochemical assisted synthesis of dual functional BSA nanoparticle for the removal of excessive bilirubin and strong anti-tumor effects

Abstract In this study, we prepared a dual functional albumin-based nanoparticle (gal-BSA-NPs) by sonochemical method which allowed an efficient encapsulation for Bilirubin (BR) through its adsorption capacity and hydrophobic interaction. Our study provided a possibility that the blank gal-BSA-NPs can replace BSA with better ability for the adsorption of excessive BR. Additionally, we unearthed the potential anti-tumor activity of BR on HepG2 cells and developed GSH-responsive BR-loaded gal-BSA-NPs for the treatment of liver cancer. The results showed BR-loaded gal-BSA-NPs effectively enhanced cellular uptake and exerted strong inhibition on tumor cell proliferation and migration. In vivo anti-tumor study revealed BR-loaded gal-BSA-NPs showed strong anti-tumor effects. Our study not only revealed the anti-tumor potency of BR, but also brought conventional BSA with novel application in liver cancer treatment.