Protein-based embolic agent loaded with ethiodized oil for targeted tumor vascular embolization

Tumor embolization therapy often involves complex procedures and poses challenges for physicians, especially with radiological imaging guidance. Inspired by physiological processes of misfolded protein aggregation and thrombus formation, we developed a protein-based embolic agent using ethiodized oil and human serum albumin for targeted tumor embolization. By occupying the hydrophobic cavity of albumin and disrupting its refolding process, these ethiodized oil bound human serum albumin nanoparticles (Oil@HSA NPs) achieve spontaneous aggregation and size growth at high concentrations, a unique advantage over conventional phospholipid nanoparticles. When combined with bacterium-induced coagulation in tumor vessels, Oil@HSA NPs selectively accumulate at tumor sites, blocking blood flow and significantly inhibiting tumor growth. This study introduces a practical and innovative approach to tumor embolization, offering a streamlined and effective alternative for vascular targeting in cancer therapy.