The combined administration of parthenolide and ginsenoside CK in long circulation liposomes with targeted tLyp-1 ligand induce mitochondria-mediated lung cancer apoptosis

BACKGROUND: Combinations of natural products with low toxicities using tumor-targeting carriers may improve cancer treatment. The combined parthenolide and ginsenoside compound K (CK) within tLyp-1 liposomes, with the aim of improving the efficacy of lung cancer treatment. RESULTS: In vitro studies in A549 human pulmonary adenocarcinoma cells demonstrated that parthenolide/CK tLyp-1 liposomes increased reactive oxygen species levels and induced mitochondrial apoptosis. It enters into cells via receptor-mediated uptake and micropinocytosis, followed by endosomal/lysosomal escape. In vivo studies illustrated that it produced a greater antitumor effect than combined administration of these compounds, with minimal toxicity. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicated that combined application of natural products in nanocarriers could offer attractive therapeutic options.