Objective  To investigate the inhibitory effect of melittin combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the biological behavior of melanoma cells (B16-F10).

Methods  Nano-drug bee venom peptide photosensitive lipid nanoparticles (α-melittin-PPIX-NP) were prepared and characterized by hydrolysis method. The red blood cell hemolysis experiment verified the hemolytic side effects of melittin. CCK-8 was used to detect its ability to kill B16-F10 cells in combination with PDT. Western Blot was used to detect the expression of SR-B1 receptor protein in different cells. Flow cytometry was used to detect cell apoptosis, drug uptake by different cells, and in vitro activation of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs).

Results  The prepared α-melittin-PPIN-NP had uniform morphology and concentrated hydrated particle size distribution, which significantly reduced the side effects of erythrocyte hemolysis. α-melittin-PPIX-NP can efficiently target B16-F10 cells and inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells by activating BMDCs, and its effect is better when combined with near-infrared light (NIR).

Conclusion  PDT with α-melittin-PPIX-NP combined with NIR can promote the apoptosis of B16-F10 cells, activate BMDC, and effectively increase the anti-tumor immune effect.

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