Figure 2.

Ultrasmall GNs in cancer chemotherapy. Schematic representation of the synthesis and mechanism of action of GNs targeting the neuropilin-1 receptor. The scheme for the functionalization of GSH-GNs (Au-GSH) with the chemotherapeutic drug Pt(IV) and the targeting peptide CRGDK is shown in the top part. The fully functionalized delivery system is Au@Pt(IV)+CRGDK. The individual components are shown in the bottom part. The middle part shows the interaction between the neuropilin-1 receptor on the prostate cancer cell surface and the targeting ligand on the nanoparticles. This enhances cellular uptake of the nanoparticles by endocytosis and release of active cisplatin into the nucleus. Adapted with permission from ⁵⁷, copyright 2014 American Chemical Society.