Introduction: Chemotherapy for cancer is facing numerous challenges due to its non-targeting of both cancerous and normal cells, often leading to adverse side effects. The utilization of hyaluronic acid-based nanoparticles as a drug delivery system offers a promising approach to enhance the efficacy of doxorubicin (DOX) by selectively targeting cancer cells. Nanodiamonds (NDs), a distinctive network of carbon atoms, have demonstrated remarkable potential in various cancer treatments due to their unique properties, including low toxicity, biocompatibility, chemical stability, and suitable surface for various modifications. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs), conjugated with anticancer drugs, can significantly improve their delivery to tumor sites. Materials and Methods: In this study, a targeted drug delivery system based on nanodiamonds was designed and synthesized. Gold nanoparticles were strategically attached to the carboxyl groups on the surface of the nanodiamonds, and the anticancer drug doxorubicin was carefully loaded onto the ND-Au nanoparticle. Hyaluronic acid (HA), a recognized targeting agent for the cancer cell receptor CD44, was added to this drug-polymer conjugation. The physical and chemical characteristics of the synthesized nanocarrier were thoroughly investigated through dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential analysis, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Moreover, drug release was quantified in various media to assess its pH responsiveness. Results: The ND-Au-DOX-HA nanocarrier, exhibiting a size of approximately 41 nm, a surface charge of -53.1 mV, and an absorption peak within the 400-500 nm range, was successfully synthesized with the desired size and stability. The total DOX release at three different pH values (pH 7.4, 6.5, and 5.0) was determined to be 18%, 30%, and 50%, respectively, indicating the pH-sensitive nature of the synthesized nanoparticle. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the promising attributes of the synthesized ND-Au-DOX-HA nanocarrier, such as its optimal size and pH responsiveness. These characteristics make it a compelling candidate for enhancing the specificity and efficacy of cancer therapy.

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