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.