Parametric Modeling Study of Nanoparticle Penetration Into Spherical Cell Clusters

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery is a promising cancer treatment method due to the ability to target tumor sites by preferential extravasation and to deliver higher loads of therapeutics. Although nanoparticle penetration in tumor tissue is limited due to diffusional restrictions, delivery can be improved by enzymatic degradation of extracellular matrix proteins at the tumor site. Here, a mathematical model describing transport of nanoparticles in non-uniformly porous spheroids is developed, accounting for binding of particles with cells and endocytosis. Results of parametric simulations for nanoparticle concentration inside spheroids highlight the influence of various system parameters. Preliminary experimental data show qualitative agreement with the theory. These results are useful for understanding nanoparticle delivery and for designing drug delivery strategies.Copyright © 2007 by ASME