Fig. 7

Schematic representing the mode of action of targeted functional nanoparticles (Amy-F) and RT. The Amy-F is a chemotherapy drug targeted to cancer cell surfaces via cancer cell-specific ligands. Amy-F binds to surfaces by recognizing specific receptors resulting in Amy-F internalization via endocytosis. Inside the cell, Amy-F undergoes endosomal escape leading to cytotoxic drug release. Treatment with Amy-F alone or as a radio-sensitizer (prior to RT) induces cancer cell death through modulating the tumor promoting factors and immunosuppressors of BCs by modulation of MAPK_low, P38_low, Fe_low, NO_low, ROS_high, CD4_low, CD8_high, CD80_low, NKG2D_high, TGF-β_low, VEGF_low, INF-γ_low, IL-2l_ow, and IL-6_low expression. ( →) Indicates pathway direction and (T) indicates blocking functions