Pancreatic cancer stem cell proliferation is strongly inhibited by diethyldithiocarbamate-copper complex loaded into hyaluronic acid decorated liposomes

Hyperbaric Oxygen Boosts Antitumor Efficacy of Copper-Diethyldithiocarbamate Nanoparticles against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma by Regulating Cancer Stem Cell Metabolism

Cuproptosis-based cancer nanomedicine has received widespread attention recently. However, cuproptosis nanomedicine against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is severely limited by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which reside in the hypoxic stroma and adopt glycolysis metabolism accordingly to resist cuproptosis-induced mitochondria damage. Here, we leverage hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) to regulate CSC metabolism by overcoming tumor hypoxia and to augment CSC elimination efficacy of polydopamine and hydroxyethyl starch stabilized copper-diethyldithiocarbamate nanoparticles (CuET@PH NPs). Mechanistically, while HBO and CuET@PH NPs inhibit glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, respectively, the combination of HBO and CuET@PH NPs potently suppresses energy metabolism of CSCs, thereby achieving robust tumor inhibition of PDAC and elongating mice survival importantly. This study reveals novel insights into the effects of cuproptosis nanomedicine on PDAC CSC metabolism and suggests that the combination of HBO with cuproptosis nanomedicine holds significant clinical translation potential for PDAC patients.

Intelligent responsive copper-diethyldithiocarbamate-based multifunctional nanomedicine for photothermal-augmented synergistic cancer therapy

The design of multifunctional nanomedicine through the combination of multimodal treatments to achieve the optimal antitumor effect is essential for cancer therapy. Herein, we design and develop a multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform using an iron ion-doxorubicin (DOX) nanoscale coordination polymer (Fe/DOX NCP) as a shell coating on the surface of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) stabilized copper-diethyldithiocarbamate nanoparticles (Cu(DDC)2 NPs) for combined tumor chemo-/photothermal/chemodynamic therapy. The obtained Cu(DDC)2@Fe/DOX NPs display pH/laser dual-responsive degradation behavior and also exhibit favorable photothermal performance. Under 808 nm laser irradiation, Cu(DDC)2@Fe/DOX NPs can convert light into heat, which not only kills tumor cells via hyperthermia in photothermal therapy (PTT), but also accelerates the degradation of Fe/DOX NCPs to release Fe3+ and DOX. The liberated Fe3+ can be used to catalyze hydrogen peroxide via the Fenton reaction to produce highly toxic hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) in chemodynamic therapy (CDT). The released DOX and the exposed Cu(DDC)2 can cause significant cell death in combined chemotherapy via a superimposed effect. In vitro and in vivo results prove that Cu(DDC)2@Fe/DOX NPs with laser irradiation present remarkable anticancer performances in hyperthermia-enhanced chemo-/CDT. Therefore, this study provides a new strategy for highly efficient synergistic cancer therapy.

Liposomal form of 2-alkylthioimidazolone-based copper complexes for combined cancer therapy

Aim: To develop an optimized approach for encapsulating a 2-alkylthioimidazolone-based copper coordination compound within liposomes, which could offer treatment of cancer and bacterial infections by reactive oxygen species generation toxicity mechanisms. Materials & methods: For drug-loaded liposome preparation, lipids and drug mixture in organic solvents was injected into copper salt solution, forming a coordination compound simultaneously embedded in the lipid bilayer. In vitro tests were performed on MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Results: Liposomes had a loading capacity of up to 1.75% (molar drug-to-lipid ratio). In vitro tests showed increased viability and accumulation of the liposomal formulation compared with free drug as well as lack of cytotoxicity in hepatocytes. Conclusion: This optimized technique for encapsulating large copper complexes in liposomes could be used to improve their delivery and better treat cancer and bacterial infections.

Recent advances in liposome-based targeted cancer therapy

Nano-drug delivery systems have opened new pathways for tumor treatment by overcoming some of the limitations of conventional drugs, such as physiological degradation, short half-life, and rapid release. Liposomes are promising nanocarrier systems due to their biocompatibility, low toxicity, and high inclusivity, as well as their enhanced drug bioavailability. Various strategies for active targeting of liposomal formulations have been investigated to achieve the highest drug efficacy. This review aims to summarize current developments in novel liposomal formulations, particularly ligand-targeted liposomes (such as folate, transferrin, hyaluronic acid, antibodies, aptamer, and peptide, etc.) used for the therapy of various cancers and provide an insight on the challenges and future of liposomes for scientists and pharmaceutical companies.

The bioengineered and multifunctional nanoparticles in pancreatic cancer therapy: Bioresponisive nanostructures, phototherapy and targeted drug delivery

The multidisciplinary approaches in treatment of cancer appear to be essential in term of bringing benefits of several disciplines and their coordination in tumor elimination. Because of the biological and malignant features of cancer cells, they have ability of developing resistance to conventional therapies such as chemo- and radio-therapy. Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a malignant disease of gastrointestinal tract in which chemotherapy and radiotherapy are main tools in its treatment, and recently, nanocarriers have been emerged as promising structures in its therapy. The bioresponsive nanocarriers are able to respond to pH and redox, among others, in targeted delivery of cargo for specific treatment of PC. The loading drugs on the nanoparticles that can be synthetic or natural compounds, can help in more reduction in progression of PC through enhancing their intracellular accumulation in cancer cells. The encapsulation of genes in the nanoparticles can protect against degradation and promotes intracellular accumulation in tumor suppression. A new kind of therapy for cancer is phototherapy in which nanoparticles can stimulate both photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy through hyperthermia and ROS overgeneration to trigger cell death in PC. Therefore, synergistic therapy of phototherapy with chemotherapy is performed in accelerating tumor suppression. One of the important functions of nanotechnology is selective targeting of PC cells in reducing side effects on normal cells. The nanostructures are capable of being surface functionalized with aptamers, proteins and antibodies to specifically target PC cells in suppressing their progression. Therefore, a specific therapy for PC is provided and future implications for diagnosis of PC is suggested.

Exploring novel strategies to improve anti-tumour efficiency: The potential for targeting reactive oxygen species

The cellular milieu in which malignant growths or cancer stem cells reside is known as the tumour microenvironment (TME). It is the consequence of the interactivity amongst malignant and non-malignant cells and directly affects cancer development and progression. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are chemically reactive molecules that contain oxygen, they are generated because of numerous endogenous and external factors. Endogenous ROS produced from mitochondria is known to significantly increase intracellular oxidative stress. In addition to playing a key role in several biological processes both in healthy and malignant cells, ROS function as secondary messengers in cell signalling. At low to moderate concentrations, ROS serves as signalling transducers to promote cancer cell motility, invasion, angiogenesis, and treatment resistance. At high concentrations, ROS can induce oxidative stress, leading to DNA damage, lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. These effects can result in cell death or trigger signalling pathways that lead to apoptosis. The creation of innovative therapies and cancer management techniques has been aided by a thorough understanding of the TME. At present, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, occasionally in combination, are the most often used methods for tumour treatment. The current challenge that these therapies face is the lack of spatiotemporal application specifically at the lesion which results in toxic effects on healthy cells associated with off-target drug delivery and undesirably high doses. Nanotechnology can be used to specifically deliver various chemicals via nanocarriers to target tumour cells, thereby increasing the accumulation of ROS-inducing agents at the site of the tumour. Nanoparticles can be engineered to release ROS-inducing agents in a controlled manner to the TME that will in turn react with the ROS to either increase or decrease it, thereby improving antitumour efficiency. Nano-delivery systems such as liposomes, nanocapsules, solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers were explored for the up/down-regulation of ROS. This review will discuss the use of nanotechnology in targeting and altering the ROS in the TME.

Advancing Cancer Therapy with Copper/Disulfiram Nanomedicines and Drug Delivery Systems

Disulfiram (DSF) is a thiocarbamate based drug that has been approved for treating alcoholism for over 60 years. Preclinical studies have shown that DSF has anticancer efficacy, and its supplementation with copper (CuII) significantly potentiates the efficacy of DSF. However, the results of clinical trials have not yielded promising results. The elucidation of the anticancer mechanisms of DSF/Cu (II) will be beneficial in repurposing DSF as a new treatment for certain types of cancer. DSF's anticancer mechanism is primarily due to its generating reactive oxygen species, inhibiting aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity inhibition, and decreasing the levels of transcriptional proteins. DSF also shows inhibitory effects in cancer cell proliferation, the self-renewal of cancer stem cells (CSCs), angiogenesis, drug resistance, and suppresses cancer cell metastasis. This review also discusses current drug delivery strategies for DSF alone diethyldithocarbamate (DDC), Cu (II) and DSF/Cu (II), and the efficacious component Diethyldithiocarbamate-copper complex (CuET).

A Thermosensitive, Chitosan-Based Hydrogel as Delivery System for Antibacterial Liposomes to Surgical Site Infections

Prophylaxis and the treatment of surgical site infections (SSIs) with antibiotics frequently fail due to the antibiotic resistance of bacteria and the ability of bacteria to reside in biofilms (i.e., bacterial clusters in a protective matrix). Therefore, alternative antibacterial treatments are required to combat biofilm infections. The combination of diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC^-) and copper ions (Cu²⁺) exhibited antibiofilm activity against the staphylococci species associated with SSIs; however, the formation of a water-insoluble Cu(DDC)₂ complex limits its application to SSIs. Here, we describe the development and antibiofilm activity of an injectable gel containing a liposomal formulation of Cu(DDC)₂ and Cu²⁺ (lipogel). Lyophilized liposomes were incorporated into a mixture of chitosan (CS) and beta-glycerophosphate (βGP), and the thermosensitive gelling properties of CS-βGP and the lipogel were determined. The liposomes remained stable after lyophilization over six months at 4-6 °C and -20 °C. The sol-gel transition of the gel and lipogel occurred between 33 and 39 °C, independently of sterilization or storage at -20 °C. CS-βGP is biocompatible and the liposomes were released over time. The lipogel prevented biofilm formation over 2 days and killed 98.7% of the methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and 99.9% of the Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms. Therefore, the lipogel is a promising new prophylaxis and treatment strategy for local application to SSIs.

Disulfiram: A Food and Drug Administration-approved multifunctional role in synergistically drug delivery systems for tumor treatment

Disulfiram (DSF), a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug for the treatment of alcoholism, has been found to have antitumor activity. DSF showed better antitumor efficiency when it was used in combination with certain antitumor drugs. DSF plays an important role in cancer treatment. It has been used as multidrug resistance (MDR) modulator to reverse MDR and can also combine with copper ions (Cu²⁺), which will produce copper diethyldithiocarbamate (Cu[DDC]₂) complex with antitumor activity. The synergistic targeted drug delivery for cancer treatment based on DSF, especially the combination with exogenous Cu²⁺ and its forms of administration, has attracted extensive attention in the biomedical field. In this review, we summarize these synergistic delivery systems, in the hope that they will contribute to the continuous optimization and development of more advanced drug delivery systems. Furthermore, we discuss the current limitation and future directions of DSF-based drug delivery systems in the field of tumor therapy. Hopefully, our work may inspire further innovation of DSF-based antitumor drug delivery systems.

microRNA-497 prevents pancreatic cancer stem cell gemcitabine resistance, migration, and invasion by directly targeting nuclear factor kappa B 1

Objectives: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) comprise a small population of cells in cancerous tumors and play a critical role in tumor resistance to chemotherapy. miRNAs have been reported to enhance the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer to chemotherapy. However, the underlying molecular mechanism requires better understanding.

Methods: Cell viability and proliferation were examined with CCK8 assays. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was executed to assess mRNA expression. StarBase database was used to select the target genes of miRNA, which were further affirmed by dual luciferase assay. Transwell assay was used to analyze cell invasion and migration.

Results: We proved that miR-497 could be obviously downregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and CSCs from Aspc-1 and Bxpc-3 cells. In addition, inhibition of miR-497 evidently accelerated pancreatic CSC gemcitabine resistance, migration and invasion. Moreover, we revealed that nuclear factor kappa B 1 (NFκB1) was prominently upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues and pancreatic CSCs, and NFκB1 was also identified as a direct target of miR-497. Furthermore, we demonstrated that overexpression of NFκB1 could also notably promote the viability, migration, and invasion of gemcitabine-treated pancreatic CSCs, but this effect could be partially abolished by miR-497 overexpression.

Conclusions: Those findings suggest that miR-497 overexpression could suppress gemcitabine resistance and the metastasis of pancreatic CSCs and non-CSCs by directly targeting NFκB1.

Metal complex-based liposomes: Applications and prospects in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics

Metal complexes are of increasing interest as pharmaceutical agents in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, while some of them suffer from issues such as limited water solubility and severe systemic toxicity. These drawbacks severely hampered their efficacy and clinical applications. Liposomes hold promise as delivery vehicles for constructing metal complex-based liposomes to maximize the therapeutic efficacy and minimize the side effects of metal complexes. This review provides an overview on the latest advances of metal complex-based liposomal delivery systems. First, the development of metal complex-mediated liposomal encapsulation is briefly introduced. Next, applications of metal complex-based liposomes in a variety of fields are overviewed, where drug delivery, cancer imaging (single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)), and cancer therapy (chemotherapy, phototherapy, and radiotherapy) were involved. Moreover, the potential toxicity, action of toxic mechanisms, immunological effects of metal complexes as well as the advantages of metal complex-liposomes in this content are also discussed. In the end, the future expectations and challenges of metal complex-based liposomes in clinical cancer therapy are tentatively proposed.

One-Step Synthesis of Nanoliposomal Copper Diethyldithiocarbamate and Its Assessment for Cancer Therapy

The metal complex copper diethyldithiocarbamate (CuET) induces cancer cell death by inhibiting protein degradation and induces proteotoxic stress, making CuET a promising cancer therapeutic. However, no clinical formulation of CuET exists to date as the drug is insoluble in water and exhibits poor bioavailability. To develop a scalable formulation, nanoliposomal (LP) CuET was synthesized using ethanol injection as a facile one-step method that is suitable for large-scale manufacturing. The nanoparticles are monodispersed, colloidally stable, and approximately 100 nm in diameter with an encapsulation efficiency of over 80%. LP-CuET demonstrates excellent stability in plasma, minimal size change, and little drug release after six-month storage at various temperatures. Additionally, melanoma cell lines exhibit significant sensitivity to LP-CuET and cellular uptake occurs predominantly through endocytosis in YUMM 1.7 cancer cells. Intracellular drug delivery is mediated by vesicle acidification with more nanoparticles being internalized by melanoma cells compared with RAW 264.7 macrophages. Additionally, the nanoparticles preferentially accumulate in YUMM 1.7 tumors where they induce cancer cell death in vivo. The development and characterization of a stable and scalable CuET formulation illustrated in this study fulfils the requirements needed for a potent clinical grade formulation.

Nanocarriers targeting the diseases of the pancreas

Diseases of the pancreas include acute and chronic pancreatitis, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, diabetes and pancreatic cancer. These pathologies can be difficult to treat due to the innate properties of the pancreas, its structure and localization. The need for effective targeting of the pancreatic tissue by means of nanoparticles delivering therapeutics is a major focus area covered and discussed in this review. Most common diseases of the pancreas do not have specific and direct medical treatment option, and existing treatment options are generally aimed at relieving symptoms. Diabetes has different treatment options for different subtypes based on insulin having stability problems and requiring injections reducing patient compliance. Pancreatic cancer progresses silently and can only be diagnosed in advanced stages. Therefore, survival rate of patients is very low. Gemcitabine and FOLFIRINOX treatment regimens, the most commonly used clinical standard treatments, are generally insufficient due to the chemoresistance that develops in cancer cells and also various side effects. Therefore new treatment options for pancreatic cancer are also under focus. Overcoming drug resistance and pancreatic targeting can be achieved with active and passive targeting methods, and a more effective and safer treatment regimen can be provided at lower drug doses. This review covers the current literature and clinical trials concerning pancreatic drug delivery systems in the nanoscale focusing on the challenges and opportunities provided by these smart delivery systems.

Leveraging disulfiram to treat cancer: Mechanisms of action, delivery strategies, and treatment regimens

Disulfiram (DSF) has been used as an alcoholism drug for 70 years. Recently, it has attracted increasing attention owing to the distinguished anticancer activity, which can be further potentiated by the supplementation of Cu²⁺. Although encouraging anticancer results are obtained in lab, the clinical outcomes of oral DSF are not satisfactory, which urges an in-depth understanding of the underlying mechanisms, bottlenecks, and proposal of potential methods to address the dilemma. In this review, a critical summarization of various molecular biological anticancer mechanisms of DSF/Cu²⁺ is provided and the predicament of orally delivering DSF in clinical oncotherapy is explained by the metabolic barriers. We highlight the recent advances in the DSF/Cu²⁺ delivery strategies and the emerging treatment regimens for cancer treatment. Last but not the least, we summarize the clinical trials regarding DSF and make a prospect of DSF/Cu-based cancer therapy.

Thermoresponsive chimeric nanocarriers as drug delivery systems

Chimeric or mixed nanosystems belong to the class of advanced therapeutics. Their distinctive characteristic compared with other types of nanoparticles is that they combine two or more different classes of biomaterials. These platforms have created a promising and versatile field of nanomedicine, incorporating materials that are biocompatible, such as lipids, but also functional, such as stimuli-responsive polymers. In the present work, thermoresponsive chimeric nanocarriers composed of l-α-phosphatidylcholine (Egg, Chicken) (EPC) phospholipids and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-b-poly(lauryl acrylate) (PNIPAM-b-PLA) block copolymers were designed and developed. Initially, model lipid bilayers with incorporated polymers and drug molecule TRAM-34 were built and studied for their thermodynamics, in order to assess the stability and functionality of the systems. Chimeric nanoparticles of EPC and PNIPAM-b-PLA were then developed and evaluated for their physicochemical properties in different medium conditions, as well as for their morphology. Polymer incorporation led to alterations in the properties and morphology of the nanoparticles, while interactions with serum proteins were absent. TRAM-34 was also incorporated inside the developed nanocarriers, followed by incorporation and release studies, which revealed the functionality of the system in elevated temperature conditions. Finally, in vitro studies on normal cells suggest the biocompatibility of these nanosystems. The proposed platforms are promising for further studies and applications in vitro and in vivo.

Developing Actively Targeted Nanoparticles to Fight Cancer: Focus on Italian Research

Active targeting is a valuable and promising approach with which to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of nanodelivery systems, and the development of tumor-targeted nanoparticles has therefore attracted much research attention. In this field, the research carried out in Italian Pharmaceutical Technology academic groups has been focused on the development of actively targeted nanosystems using a multidisciplinary approach. To highlight these efforts, this review reports a thorough description of the last 10 years of Italian research results on the development of actively targeted nanoparticles to direct drugs towards different receptors that are overexpressed on cancer cells or in the tumor microenvironment. In particular, the review discusses polymeric nanocarriers, liposomes, lipoplexes, niosomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, squalene nanoassemblies and nanobubbles. For each nanocarrier, the main ligands, conjugation strategies and target receptors are described. The literature indicates that polymeric nanoparticles and liposomes stand out as key tools for improving specific drug delivery to the site of action. In addition, solid lipid nanoparticles, squalene nanoparticles and nanobubbles have also been successfully proposed. Taken together, these strategies all offer many platforms for the design of nanocarriers that are suitable for future clinical translation.

Copper Dithiocarbamates: Coordination Chemistry and Applications in Materials Science, Biosciences and Beyond

Copper dithiocarbamate complexes have been known for ca. 120 years and find relevance in biology and medicine, especially as anticancer agents and applications in materials science as a single-source precursor (SSPs) to nanoscale copper sulfides. Dithiocarbamates support Cu(I), Cu(II) and Cu(III) and show a rich and diverse coordination chemistry. Homoleptic [Cu(S2CNR2)2] are most common, being known for hundreds of substituents. All contain a Cu(II) centre, being either monomeric (distorted square planar) or dimeric (distorted trigonal bipyramidal) in the solid state, the latter being held together by intermolecular C···S interactions. Their d9 electronic configuration renders them paramagnetic and thus readily detected by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Reaction with a range of oxidants affords d8 Cu(III) complexes, [Cu(S2CNR2)2][X], in which copper remains in a square-planar geometry, but Cu–S bonds shorten by ca. 0.1 Å. These show a wide range of different structural motifs in the solid-state, varying with changes in anion and dithiocarbamate substituents. Cu(I) complexes, [Cu(S2CNR2)2]−, are (briefly) accessible in an electrochemical cell, and the only stable example is recently reported [Cu(S2CNH2)2][NH4]·H2O. Others readily lose a dithiocarbamate and the d10 centres can either be trapped with other coordinating ligands, especially phosphines, or form clusters with tetrahedral [Cu(μ3-S2CNR2)]4 being most common. Over the past decade, a wide range of Cu(I) dithiocarbamate clusters have been prepared and structurally characterised with nuclearities of 3–28, especially exciting being those with interstitial hydride and/or acetylide co-ligands. A range of mixed-valence Cu(I)–Cu(II) and Cu(II)–Cu(III) complexes are known, many of which show novel physical properties, and one Cu(I)–Cu(II)–Cu(III) species has been reported. Copper dithiocarbamates have been widely used as SSPs to nanoscale copper sulfides, allowing control over the phase, particle size and morphology of nanomaterials, and thus giving access to materials with tuneable physical properties. The identification of copper in a range of neurological diseases and the use of disulfiram as a drug for over 50 years makes understanding of the biological formation and action of [Cu(S2CNEt2)2] especially important. Furthermore, the finding that it and related Cu(II) dithiocarbamates are active anticancer agents has pushed them to the fore in studies of metal-based biomedicines.

Liposomes Loaded with Everolimus and Coated with Hyaluronic Acid: A Promising Approach for Lung Fibrosis

Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) and interstitial lung disease associated with collagen tissue diseases (CTD-ILD) are two end-stage lung disorders in which different chronic triggers induce activation of myo-/fibroblasts (LFs). Everolimus, an mTOR inhibitor, can be adopted as a potential strategy for CLAD and CTD-ILD, however it exerts important side effects. This study aims to exploit nanomedicine to reduce everolimus side effects encapsulating it inside liposomes targeted against LFs, expressing a high rate of CD44. PEGylated liposomes were modified with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid and loaded with everolimus (PEG-LIP(ev)-HA400kDa). Liposomes were tested by in vitro experiments using LFs derived from broncholveolar lavage (BAL) of patients affected by CLAD and CTD-ILD, and on alveolar macrophages (AM) and lymphocytes isolated, respectively, from BAL and peripheral blood. PEG-LIP-HA400kDa demonstrated to be specific for LFs, but not for CD44-negative cells, and after loading everolimus, PEG-LIP(ev)-HA400kDa were able to arrest cell cycle arrest and to decrease phospho-mTOR level. PEG-LIP(ev)-HA400kDa showed anti-inflammatory effect on immune cells. This study opens the possibility to use everolimus in lung fibrotic diseases, demonstrating that our lipids-based vehicles can vehicle everolimus inside cells exerting the same drug molecular effect, not only in LFs, but also in immune cells.

Nanomedicine to Overcome Multidrug Resistance Mechanisms in Colon and Pancreatic Cancer: Recent Progress

The development of drug resistance is one of the main causes of cancer treatment failure. This phenomenon occurs very frequently in different types of cancer, including colon and pancreatic cancers. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. In recent years, nanomedicine has improved the delivery and efficacy of drugs, and has decreased their side effects. In addition, it has allowed to design drugs capable of avoiding certain resistance mechanisms of tumors. In this article, we review the main resistance mechanisms in colon and pancreatic cancers, along with the most relevant strategies offered by nanodrugs to overcome this obstacle. These strategies include the inhibition of efflux pumps, the use of specific targets, the development of nanomedicines affecting the environment of cancer-specific tissues, the modulation of DNA repair mechanisms or RNA (miRNA), and specific approaches to damage cancer stem cells, among others. This review aims to illustrate how advanced nanoformulations, including polymeric conjugates, micelles, dendrimers, liposomes, metallic and carbon-based nanoparticles, are allowing to overcome one of the main limitations in the treatment of colon and pancreatic cancers. The future development of nanomedicine opens new horizons for cancer treatment.

Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia as Treatment Option for Pancreatic Cancer Cells and Pancreatic Cancer Organoids

INTRODUCTION

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a cancer with a meager prognosis due to its chemotherapy resistance. A new treatment method may be magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH). Magnetoliposomes (ML), consisting of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) stabilized with a phospholipid-bilayer, are exposed to an alternating magnetic field (AMF) to generate heat. To optimize this therapy, we investigated the effects of MFH on human PDAC cell lines and 3D organoid cultures.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

ML cytotoxicity was tested on Mia PaCa-2 and PANC-1 cells and on PDAC 3D organoid cultures, generated from resected tissue of patients. The MFH was achieved by AMF application with an amplitude of 40-47 kA/m and a frequency of 270 kHz. The MFH effect on the cell viability of the cell lines and the organoid cultures was investigated at two different time points. Clonogenic assays evaluated the impairment of colony formation. Altering ML set-ups addressed differences arising from intra- vs extracellular ML locations.

RESULTS

Mia PaCa-2 and PANC-1 cells showed no cytotoxic effects at ML concentrations up to 300 µg(Fe)/mL and 225 µg(Fe)/mL, respectively. ML at a concentration of 225 µg(Fe)/mL were also non-toxic for PDAC organoid cultures. MFH treatment using exclusively extracellular ML presented the highest impact on cell viability. Clonogenic assays demonstrated remarkable impairment as long-term outcome in MFH-treated PDAC cell lines. Additionally, we successfully treated PDAC organoids with extracellular ML-derived MFH, resulting in notably reduced cell viabilities 2h and 24 h post treatment. Still, PDAC organoids seem to partly recover from MFH after 24 h as opposed to conventional 2D-cultures.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with MFH strongly diminished pancreatic cancer cell viability in vitro, making it a promising treatment strategy. As organoids resemble the more advanced in vivo conditions better than conventional 2D cell lines, our organoid model holds great potential for further investigations.

Dithiocarbazate-Copper Complexes for Bioimaging and Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

Anticancer agents that present nonapoptotic cell death pathways are required for treating apoptosis-resistant pancreatic cancer. Here, we synthesized three fluorescent dithiocarbazate-copper complexes, {[Cu^II(L)(Cl)] 1, [Cu^II₂(L)₂(NO₃)₂] 2, and [Cu^II₂Cu^I(L)₂(Br)₃] 3}, to assess their antipancreatic cancer activities. Complexes 1-3 showed significantly greater cytotoxicity toward several pancreatic cancer cell lines with better IC₅₀ than those of the HL ligand and cisplatin. Confocal fluorescence imaging showed that complex 3 was primarily localized in the mitochondria. Primarily, compound 3 also can be applied to in vivo imaging. Further studies revealed that complex 3 kills pancreatic cancer cells by triggering multiple mechanisms, including ferroptosis. Complex 3 is the first copper complex to evoke cellular events consistent with ferroptosis in cancer cells. Finally, it significantly retarded the ASPC-1 cells' growth in a mouse xenograft model.

Cyclodextrin Diethyldithiocarbamate Copper II Inclusion Complexes: A Promising Chemotherapeutic Delivery System against Chemoresistant Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Diethyldithiocarbamate Copper II (DDC-Cu) has shown potent anticancer activity against a wide range of cancer cells, but further investigations are hindered by its practical insolubility in water. In this study, inclusion complexes of DDC-Cu with hydroxypropyl beta-cyclodextrin (HP) or sulfobutyl ether beta-cyclodextrin (SBE) were prepared and investigated as an approach to enhance the apparent solubility of DDC-Cu. Formulations were prepared by simple mixing of DDC-Cu with both cyclodextrin (CDs) at room temperature. Phase solubility assessments of the resulting solutions were performed. DDC-Cu CD solutions were freeze-dried for further characterisations by DSC, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and FT-IR. Stability and cytotoxicity studies were also performed to investigate the maintenance of DDC-Cu anticancer activity. The phase solubility profile deviated positively from the linearity (Ap type) showing significant solubility enhancement of the DDC-Cu in both CD solutions (approximately 4 mg/mL at 20% w/w CD solutions). The DSC and TGA analysis confirmed the solid solution status of DDC-Cu in CD. The resulting solutions of DDC-Cu were stable for 28 days and conveyed the anticancer activity of DDC-Cu on chemoresistant triple negative breast cancer cell lines, with IC₅₀ values less than 200 nM. Overall, cyclodextrin DDC-Cu complexes offer a great potential for anticancer applications, as evidenced by their very positive effects against chemoresistant triple negative breast cancer cells.

Heterogeneous Pancreatic Stellate Cells Are Powerful Contributors to the Malignant Progression of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is associated with highly malignant tumors and poor prognosis due to strong therapeutic resistance. Accumulating evidence shows that activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) play an important role in the malignant progression of pancreatic cancer. In recent years, the rapid development of single-cell sequencing technology has facilitated the analysis of PSC population heterogeneity, allowing for the elucidation of the relationship between different subsets of cells with tumor development and therapeutic resistance. Researchers have identified two spatially separated, functionally complementary, and reversible subtypes, namely myofibroblastic and inflammatory PSC. Myofibroblastic PSC produce large amounts of pro-fibroproliferative collagen fibers, whereas inflammatory PSC express large amounts of inflammatory cytokines. These distinct cell subtypes cooperate to create a microenvironment suitable for cancer cell survival. Therefore, further understanding of the differentiation of PSC and their distinct functions will provide insight into more effective treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients.

Synthesis, characterization and in vitro cytotoxicity studies of novel Cu(II) complex containing zonisamide drug: DNA interaction by multi spectroscopic and molecular docking methods

In this study, the Cu(II) complex with Zonisamide (ZNS) and 1, 10-Phenanthroline (Phen) ligands as an anticancer metallodrug was synthesized and characterized successfully by FT-IR, mass spectrometry, TGA, XPS, AAS, CHNSO, magnetic susceptibility and electrical conductivity. The interaction of Cu(II) complex with DNA was explored through a multi-spectroscopic approach such as fluorescence, UV-vis spectrophotometry, CD spectroscopy, and viscosity measurements. Molecular docking simulation was carried out to gain a deeper insight into the target site of DNA which interacted with the mentioned complex. The competitive binding tests with Hoechst 33258 showed that [CuCl₂(ZNS)(Phen)EtOH].H₂O can bind to the groove site of DNA. The calculated thermodynamic parameters, ΔS° = +201.15 J mol^-1K^-1 and ΔH° = +41.32 kJ mol^-1 confirm that the hydrophobic forces and hydrogen bonding play an essential role in the binding process. The experimental and molecular modeling results demonstrate that the Cu(II) complex binds to DNA through major groove binding. Moreover, the in vitro cytotoxic effects of [CuCl₂(ZNS)(Phen)EtOH].H₂O against B92 cancer cell lines showed better activity in Cu(II) complex in comparison to free ZNS. Therefore, [CuCl₂(ZNS)(Phen)EtOH].H₂O can open a new horizon in the treatment of glioma cancer by ZNS metallodrugs.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Synthesis of defined oligohyaluronates-decorated liposomes and interaction with lung cancer cells

In this work hyaluronic acid (HA) oligosaccharides with degree of polymerization (DP) 4, 6 and 8, obtained by enzymatic depolymerization of HA, were conjugated to a PEG-phospholipid moiety. The products (HA-DP4, HA-DP6 and HA-DP8) were used to prepare decorated liposomes. The cellular uptake of HA-DP4, HA-DP6 and HA-DP8-decorated fluorescently labelled liposomes was significantly higher (12 to 14-fold) in lung cancer cell lines with high CD44 expression than in those with low CD44 expression, suggesting a receptor-mediated entry of HA-conjugated formulations. Competition assays showed that the uptake followed this rank order: HA-DP8>HA-DP6>HA-DP4 liposomes. Moreover, they are capable of a faster interaction with CD44, followed by phagocytosis, than HA liposomes obtained from HA of higher molecular weight (4800 and 14800 Da). HA-DP4, HA-DP6 and HA-DP8-liposomes did not show cytotoxicity or inflammatory effects. Overall, we propose our new HA-DP oligosaccharides as biocompatible and effective tools for a potential drug delivery to CD44-positive cells.

Surface-Engineered Cancer Nanomedicine: Rational Design and Recent Progress

Cancer is highly heterogeneous in nature and characterized by abnormal, uncontrolled cells' growth. It is responsible for the second leading cause of death in the world. Nanotechnology is explored profoundly for sitespecific delivery of cancer chemotherapeutics as well as overcome multidrug-resistance (MDR) challenges in cancer. The progress in the design of various smart biocompatible materials (such as polymers, lipids and inorganic materials) has now revolutionized the area of cancer research for the rational design of nanomedicine by surface engineering with targeting ligands. The small tunable size and surface properties of nanomedicines provide the opportunity of multiple payloads and multivalent-ligand targeting to achieve drug efficacy even in MDR cancer. Furthermore, efforts are being carried out for the development of novel nano-pharmaceutical design, focusing on the delivery of therapeutic and diagnostic agents simultaneously which is called theranostics to assess the progress of therapy in cancer. This review aimed to discuss the physicochemical manipulation of cancer nanomedicine for rational design and recent progress in the area of surface engineering of nanomedicines to improve the efficacy of cancer chemotherapeutics in MDR cancer as well. Moreover, the problem of toxicity of the advanced functional materials that are used in nanomedicines and are exploited to achieve drug targeting in cancer is also addressed.

Lipid-based Nanoplatforms in Cancer Therapy: Recent Advances and Applications

Though modern available cancer therapies are effective, they possess major adverse effects, causing non-compliance to patients. Furthermore, the majority of the polymeric-based medication platforms are certainly not universally acceptable, due to their several restrictions. With this juxtaposition, lipid-based medication delivery systems have appeared as promising drug nanocarriers to replace the majority of the polymer-based products because they are in a position to reverse polymer as well as, drug-associated restrictions. Furthermore, the amalgamation of the basic principle of nanotechnology in designing lipid nanocarriers, which are the latest form of lipid carriers, has tremendous chemotherapeutic possibilities as tumor-targeted drug-delivery pertaining to tumor therapy. Apart from this, it is reported that nearly 40% of the modern medication entities are lipophilic. Moreover, research continues to be efficient in attaining a significant understanding of the absorption and bioavailability of the developed lipids systems.

Diethyldithiocarbamate-copper nanocomplex reinforces disulfiram chemotherapeutic efficacy through light-triggered nuclear targeting

To circumvent the huge cost, long R&D time and the difficulty to identify the targets of new drugs, repurposing the ones that have been clinically approved has been considered as a viable strategy to treat different diseases. In the current study, we outlined the rationale for repurposing disulfiram (DSF, an old alcohol-aversion drug) to treat primary breast cancer and its metastases.

Methods: To overcome a few shortcomings of the individual administration of DSF, such as the dependence on copper ions (Cu²⁺) and limited capability in selective targeting, we here artificially synthesized the active form of DSF, diethyldithiocarbamate (DTC)-Cu complex (CuET) for cancer therapeutics. To achieve a greater efficacy in vivo, smart nanomedicines were devised through a one-step self-assembly of three functional components including a chemically stable and biocompatible phase-change material (PCM), the robust anticancer drug (CuET) and a near-infrared (NIR) dye (DIR), namely CuET/DIR NPs. A number of in vitro assays were performed including the photothermal efficacy, light-triggered drug release behavior, nuclear localization, DNA damage and induction of apoptosis of CuET/DIR NPs and molecular mechanisms underlying CuET-induced repression on cancer metastatic behaviors. Meanwhile, the mice bearing 4T1-LG12-drived orthotopic tumors were employed to evaluate in vivo biodistribution and anti-tumor effect of CuET/DIR NPs. The intravenous injection model was employed to reflect the changes of the intrinsic metastatic propensity of 4T1-LG12 cells responding to CuET/DIR NPs.

Results: The rationally designed nanomedicines have self-traceability for bioimaging, long blood circulation time for enhanced drug accumulation in the tumor site and photo-responsive release of the anticancer drugs. Moreover, our data unearthed that CuET/DIR nanomedicines behave like “Trojan horse” to transport CuET into the cytoplasm, realizing substantial intracellular accumulation. Upon NIR laser irradiation, massive CuET would be triggered to release from the nanomedicines and reach a high local concentration towards the nucleus, where the pro-apoptotic effects were conducted. Importantly, our CuET/DIR nanomedicines revealed a pronounced capability to leash breast cancer metastases through inhibition on EMT. Additionally, these nanomedicines showed great biocompatibility in animals.

Conclusion: These combined data unearthed a remarkably enhanced tumor-killing efficacy of our CuET nanomedicines through nuclear targeting. This work may open a new research area of repurposing DSF as innovative therapeutic agents to treat breast cancer and its metastases.

Development and In Vivo Application of a Water-Soluble Anticancer Copper Ionophore System Using a Temperature-Sensitive Liposome Formulation

Liposomes containing copper and the copper ionophore neocuproine were prepared and characterized for in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity. Thermosensitive PEGylated liposomes were prepared with different molar ratios of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and hydrogenated soybean phosphatidylcholine (HSPC) in the presence of copper(II) ions. Optimal, temperature dependent drug release was obtained at 70:30 DPPC to HSPC weight ratio. Neocuproine (applied at 0.2 mol to 1 mol phospholipid) was encapsulated through a pH gradient while using unbuffered solution at pH 4.5 inside the liposomes, and 100 mM HEPES buffer pH 7.8 outside the liposomes. Copper ions were present in excess, yielding 0.5 mM copper-(neocuproine)₂ complex and 0.5 mM free copper. Pre-heating to 45 °C increased the toxicity of the heat-sensitive liposomes in short-term in vitro experiments, whereas at 72 h all investigated liposomes exhibited similar in vitro toxicity to the copper(II)-neocuproine complex (1:1 ratio). Thermosensitive liposomes were found to be more effective in reducing tumor growth in BALB/c mice engrafted with C26 cancer cells, regardless of the mild hyperthermic treatment. Copper uptake of the tumor was verified by PET/CT imaging following treatment with [⁶⁴Cu]Cu-neocuproine liposomes. Taken together, our results demonstrate the feasibility of targeting a copper nanotoxin that was encapsulated in thermosensitive liposomes containing an excess of copper.

Novel multifunctional triple folic acid, biotin and CD44 targeting pH-sensitive nano-actiniaes for breast cancer combinational therapy

In this study, novel multifunctional folic acid, biotin, and CD44 receptors targeted and pH-sensitive “nano-actiniaes” were fabricated with icariin (ICA) and curcumin (Cur) as loaded model drugs for breast cancer therapy. The newly synthesized polymer oligomeric hyaluronic acid-hydrazone bond-folic acid-biotin (Bio-oHA-Hyd-FA) was characterized by ¹H NMR spectrogram (proton nuclear magnetic resonance). The obtained drug carrier Bio-oHA-Hyd-FA self-assembled into nanomicelles, named as “nano-actiniaes”, in aqueous media with hydrodynamic diameter of 162.7 ± 5 nm. The size, surface zeta potential, and morphology of the “nano-actiniaes” were observed via TEM. The in vitro release experiment indicated that much more encapsulated icariin (ICA) and curcumin (Cur) were released from the Bio-oHA-Hyd-FA micelles (nano-actiniaes) in the acidic environment. Additionally, the cytotoxicity research demonstrated that the Bio-oHA-Hyd-FA carrier material was completely nontoxic, and the ICA&Cur “nano-actiniaes” had greater cytotoxicity compared with other control groups. In addition, the “nano-actiniaes” were found to significantly inhibit cancer cell invasion by Transwell assay. Moreover, in vivo evaluation of anti-tumor effect illustrated that the ICA and Cur “nano-actiniaes” possessed inhibitory effect on tumors. Consequently, the multi-targeted pH-sensitive “nano-actiniaes” can realize significant tumor targeting and effectively inhibit tumor growth.

Lactoferrin/Hyaluronic acid double-coated lignosulfonate nanoparticles of quinacrine as a controlled release biodegradable nanomedicine targeting pancreatic cancer

Quinacrine is an antimalarial drug that was repositioned for treatment of cancer. This is the first work to enhance quinacrine activity and minimize its associated hepatotoxicity via loading into bio-degradable, bio-renewable lignosulfonate nanoparticles. Particles were appraised for treatment of pancreatic cancer, one of the most life-threatening tumors with a five-year survival estimate. Optimum nanocomposites prepared by polyelectrolyte interaction exhibited a particle size of 138 nm, a negative surface charge (-28 mV) and a pH dependent release of the drug in an acidic environment. Ligands used for active targeting (lactoferrin and hyaluronic acid) were added to nanoparticles' surface via layer by layer coating technique. The highest anticancer activity on PANC-1 cells was demonstrated with dual active targeted particles (3-fold decrease in IC₅₀) along with an increased ability to inhibit migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. In vivo studies revealed that elaborated nanoparticles particles showed the highest tumor volume reduction with enhanced survival without any toxicity on major organs. In conclusion, the elaborated nanoparticles could be considered as a promising targeted nanotherapy for treatment of pancreatic cancer with higher efficacy& survival rate and lower organ toxicity.

Old wine in new bottles: Advanced drug delivery systems for disulfiram-based cancer therapy

Disulfiram (DSF) is an FDA-approved drug that has been repurposed for cancer treatment. It showed excellent anticancer efficacy in combination with copper ions (Cu). Several active clinical trials testing the anticancer efficacy of DSF against various cancers are underway. In this review article, we summarized different delivery strategies for DSF-based cancer therapy. In many studies, DSF and Cu were delivered in two separate formulations. DSF and Cu formed copper diethyldithiocarbamate [Cu(DDC)₂] complex which was reported as a major active anticancer ingredient for DSF/Cu combination therapy. Various delivery systems for DSF and Cu were developed to enhance their delivery into tumors. The administration of preformed Cu(DDC)₂ complex was also explored to achieve better anticancer efficacy. Several studies developed formulations that were capable of delivering Cu(DDC)₂ complex in a single formulation. These novel formulations will address drug delivery challenges and have great potential to improve the efficacy of DSF-based cancer therapy. DSF is an off-patent drug molecule. The novel drug formulations of DSF will also serve as a good strategy for developing intellectual properties which will be critical for product development and commercialization.

Development and application of hyaluronic acid in tumor targeting drug delivery

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a natural polysaccharide that has gained much attention due to its biocompatibility, enzyme degradation capacity and active tumor targeting capacity. Its receptor, CD44, is overexpressed in many kinds of cancers and is associated with tumor progress, infiltration and metastasis. Therefore, many researchers have developed various HA-based drug delivery systems for CD44-mediated tumor targeting. In this review, we systemically overview the basic theory of HA, its receptor and hyaluronidase, then we categorize the studies in HA-based drug delivery systems according to the functions of HA, including tumor-targeting materials, enzyme-sensitive biodegradable modality, pH-sensitive component, reduction-sensitive component, and the gel backbone. Finally, the perspective is discussed.

Update on current pancreatic treatments: from molecular pathways to treatment

Pancreatic cancer is still diagnosed at a late stage although we have novel diagnostic tools. Pancreatic cancer chemotherapy treatment resistance is observed and therefore novel treatments are in need. Anti-cancer stem cell therapy, combination of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy with immunotherapy, proteins/enzymes and gene therapy are currently under evaluation. Targeted treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors is also administered and novel inhibitors are also under evaluation. In the current review we present recent data from our search within the year 2018.

Hyaluronan-CD44 axis orchestrates cancer stem cell functions

The prominent role of CD44 in tumor cell signaling together with its establishment as a cancer stem cell (CSC) marker for various tumor entities imply a key role for CD44 in CSC functional properties. Hyaluronan, the main ligand of CD44, is a major constituent of CSC niche and, therefore, the hyaluronan-CD44 signaling axis is of functional importance in this special microenvironment. This review aims to provide recent advances in the importance of hyaluronan-CD44 interactions in the acquisition and maintenance of a CSC phenotype. Hyaluronan-CD44 axis has a substantial impact on stemness properties of CSCs and drug resistance through induction of EMT program, oxidative stress resistance, secretion of extracellular vesicles/exosomes and epigenetic control. Potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSCs based on the hyaluronan-CD44 axis are also presented.

Can intracellular drug delivery using hyaluronic acid functionalised pH-sensitive liposomes overcome gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer?

Chemoresistance poses a major challenge in cancer treatment. This study aims to investigate whether intracellular drug delivery using hyaluronic acid (HA) functionalised pH-sensitive liposomes (HA-pSL) can circumvent gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer (PC). HA-pSL were obtained by covalently conjugating HA with preformed pSL. A resistant PC cell line Gr2000 was developed by exposing MIA PaCa-2 cells to gemcitabine, and characterised for their expression of CD44, a receptor for HA, and drug transporters. Cellular uptake and intracellular trafficking of liposomes were determined by confocal microscopy and HPLC analysis of intracellular drug content. Following a pharmacokinetic study in rats, anti-tumour efficacy was compared between MIA PaCa-2 and Gr2000 xenograft mouse models. HA-pSL with an HA density of 179 μg/μmol had a larger size (152.3 vs 136.3 nm), and higher zeta potential (-46.8 vs -10.5 mV) than pSL. The sensitivity of Gr2000 to gemcitabine reduced 444 times compared to its parental cell line, despite no change to the total drug influx, as drug influx- and efflux-transporters in Gr2000 cells were simultaneously up-regulated. Both cell lines had high expression of CD44. HA facilitated cell uptake without compromising the endosome-escape ability of pSL as evidenced by confocal images and co-localization analysis of the dual-fluorescence labelled liposomes and Lysotracker. HA-pSL significantly outperformed pSL, and increased cellular drug influx by 3.6 times in MIA PaCa-2 cells, and 4.6 times in Gr2000 cells. Both liposomes improved the pharmacokinetic profile of free drug. HA-pSL treatment was superior to pSL, and resulted in 6.4 times smaller tumours (weight) in the MIA PaCa-2 xenograft models, and 3.1 smaller in the Gr2000 models compared with the free drug. Taken together, this study highlighted the use of intracellular delivery strategies (HA-CD44 interaction and endosome escape) to overcome gemcitabine resistance, however, the overall improvement was marginal and tumours still existed. Further improvement in delivery efficiency of HA-pSL to target tumours and additional manipulation of the cellular metabolism of gemcitabine are needed to tackle chemoresistance.

Disulfiram Copper Nanoparticles Prepared with a Stabilized Metal Ion Ligand Complex Method for Treating Drug-Resistant Prostate Cancers

Disulfiram (DSF), an alcohol-aversion drug, has been explored for cancer treatment. Copper diethyldithiocarbamate (Cu(DDC)₂) complex formed by DSF and copper ions is a major active ingredient for its anticancer activity. Direct administration of Cu(DDC)₂ is a promising strategy to enhance the anticancer efficacy of DSF. However, efficient drug delivery remains a significant challenge for Cu(DDC)₂ and hinders its clinical use. In this study, we developed a facile stabilized metal ion ligand complex (SMILE) method to prepare Cu(DDC)₂ nanoparticles (NPs). The SMILE method could prepare Cu(DDC)₂ NPs with different types of stabilizers including 1,2-distearoyl- sn-glycerol-3-phosphoethanolamine-poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) 2000, d-α-tocopherol PEG 1000 succinate, methoxy PEG 5000- b-poly(l-lactide) 5000, and other generally recognized as safe excipients approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The optimized formulations demonstrated excellent drug-loading efficiency (close to 100%), high drug concentrations (increased drug concentration by over 200-fold compared to the traditional micelle formulation), and an optimal particle size in the sub-100 nm range. Cu(DDC)₂ NPs exhibited outstanding stability in serum for 72 h and can also be stored at room temperature for at least 1 month. The anticancer effects of Cu(DDC)₂ NP formulations were determined by multiple assays including 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, colony-forming assay, calcein-AM/propidium iodide staining, and others. Cu(DDC)₂ NPs showed excellent activity against drug-resistant prostate cancer cells and other cancer cells with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of around 100 nM. Our study also demonstrated that Cu(DDC)₂ NPs induced cell death in drug-resistant prostate cancer cells (DU145-TXR) through paraptosis, which is a nonapoptotic cell death. To our best knowledge, the SMILE method provides, for the first time, a simple yet efficient process for generating Cu(DDC)₂ NPs with high drug concentration, excellent loading efficiency, and desirable physicochemical properties. This method could potentially address drug delivery challenges of DSF/copper-based chemotherapy and facilitate its clinical translation.