Synthesis of CaCO3-Based Nanomedicine for Enhanced Sonodynamic Therapy via Amplification of Tumor Oxidative Stress

H2O2/O2 Self-Supplied Nanoplateform for amplifying oxidative stress to Accelerate Photodynamic/Chemodynamic therapy Cycles

Photodynamic (PDT) and chemodynamic therapies (CDT) relying on reactive oxygen species-mediated treatments mainly face various challenges of hypoxia, endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) deficiency, and glutathione (GSH) overexpression in the tumor microenvironment. Herein, we propose a novel strategy using a core-shell structured nanocomposite, UCNP@mSiO2@5-ALA-CaO2-Cu(UA@CC). The strategy centers on upconverting NPs and then utilizes mesoporous silica loaded with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to maximize the enrichment of protoporphyrin IX (Pph IX), an intra-tumor photosensitizer. Then in the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME), CaO2 in the outer layer reacts with H2O to form O2, H2O2 and Ca2+, and the released H2O2 serves as an auxiliary "fuel" to induce acceleration of the Fenton-like (Cu2+) reaction and inactivation of the antioxidant GSH enzyme, thus enhancing the tumor cells' Catalysis. Furthermore, under the excitation of a 980 nm laser, 5-ALA-mediated PDT and Cu+-based CDT were initiated. Through interconnected processes of Ca2+ overload, self-supply of H2O2/O2, and enhanced GSH depletion, an accelerated cycling strategy for combined PDT/CDT therapy was established, resulting in amplified oxidative stress and anti-tumor capabilities, which was validated in cancer cells and melanoma mouse models.

Bioactive microspheres to enhance sonodynamic-embolization-metalloimmune therapy for orthotopic liver cancer

The development of novel microspheres for the combination of sonodynamic therapy (SDT) with transarterial embolization (TAE) therapy to amplify their efficacy has received increasing attention. Herein, a novel strategy for encapsulating sonosensitizers (e.g., oxygen-deficient manganese tungstate (MnWOX) nanodots) with gelatin microspheres was proposed. The obtained MnWOX-encapsulated microspheres (abbr. Mn-GMSs) facilitated efficient sonodynamic-embolization-metalloimmune therapy via the immune effects of metal ions on orthotopic liver cancer tumor after transarterial embolization (TAE). Due to the strong cavitation effect caused by the porous structure, Mn-GMSs exhibited a greater reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation rate than the free MnWOX nanodots under US irradiation. Efficient SDT revealed robust cell-killing effects and triggered strong immunogenic cell death (ICD). Moreover, the Mn ions released from the bioactive Mn-GMSs further stimulated the dendritic cells (DCs) maturation and triggered the activation of the cGAS/STING pathway to enhance the immunological effect. Thus, Mn-GMSs achieved significant SDT therapeutic outcomes in H22 tumors in mice, and the combination of the Mn-GMSs triggered SDT with programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies could further enhance therapeutic outcomes. The Mn-GMSs exhibited high ROS generation efficacy under US irradiation, significant immune activation, good efficacy in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitor, and great potential for artery embolization-assisted drug delivery, thus enabling effective destruction of liver tumors in rats and rabbits. Therefore, this work provides a strategy for applying SDT in deep tumors and highlights a promising sonodynamic-embolization therapy for combating liver cancers.

Cobalt carbonate nanorods enhance chemotherapy via neutralization of acidic tumor microenvironment and generation of carbonate radical anions for necrosis

One of the hallmarks of cancer is the acidic extracellular space surrounding the tumor, which is linked to metabolic reprogramming and the use of glycolysis. Additionally, the acidic tumor microenvironment (TME) establishes a physiological barrier called "ion trapping" and significantly lowers the ability of cells to absorb weak-base chemotherapy agents. Although CO32- containing agents and nanoformulations could effectively neutralize the tumor acidity, the CO32- based therapeutic effect was insufficiently investigated. Herein, we fabricated cobalt carbonate (CoCO3) nanorods as drug carriers with acidity-responsive dissociation and acidity neutralization properties for the loading of hydrophobic and weak-basic drugs, evodiamine (EVO). After effective surface modification, CoCO3-PEG-EVO could effectively accumulate in the tumor and inhibit the growth of the tumor. On the one hand, acidity neutralization of CoCO3-PEG-EVO could lead to the ion trapping overcome and cellular uptake of EVO enhancement for effective cancer cell apoptosis. On the other hand, the high level of H2O2 in the tumor and HCO3- from dissociated CoCO3-PEG-EVO could cause the generation of CO3·- through a Fenton-like reaction while not hydroxyl radical (·OH) for cancer cell necrosis. Our results thus point to a potent yet easily prepared CoCO3 nanosystem (CoCO3-PEG-EVO) to induce cancer cell death, and because of its well-defined composition and excellent biocompatibility, it may be used in clinical settings in the future.

Amplifying Ca2+ overload by engineered biomaterials for synergistic cancer therapy

Ca2+ overload is one of the most widely causes of inducing apoptosis, pyroptosis, immunogenic cell death, autophagy, paraptosis, necroptosis, and calcification of tumor cells, and has become the most valuable therapeutic strategy in the field of cancer treatment. Nevertheless, several challenges remain in translating Ca2+ overload-mediated therapeutic strategies into clinical applications, such as the precise control of Ca2+ dynamics, specificity of Ca2+ homeostasis dysregulation, as well as comprehensive mechanisms of Ca2+ regulation. Given this, we comprehensively reviewed the Ca2+-driven intracellular signaling pathways and the application of Ca2+-based biomaterials (such as CaCO3-, CaP-, CaO2-, CaSi-, CaF2-, and CaH2-) in mediating cancer diagnosis, treatment, and immunotherapy. Meanwhile, the latest researches on Ca2+ overload-mediated therapeutic strategies, as well as those combined with multiple-model therapies in mediating cancer immunotherapy are further highlighted. More importantly, the critical challenges and the future prospects of the Ca2+ overload-mediated therapeutic strategies are also discussed. By consolidating recent findings and identifying future research directions, this review aimed to advance the field of oncology therapy and contribute to the development of more effective and targeted treatment modalities.

Metal coordination polymer nanoparticles for cancer therapy

Metal ions are essential elements in biological processes and immune homeostasis. They can regulate cancer cell death through multiple distinct molecular pathways and stimulate immune cells implicated in antitumor immune responses, suggesting opportunities to design novel metal ion-based cancer therapies. However, their small size and high charge density result in poor target cell uptake, uncontrolled biodistribution, and rapid clearance from the body, reducing therapeutic efficacy and increasing potential off-target toxicity. Metal coordination polymer nanoparticles (MCP NPs) are nanoscale polymer networks composed of metal ions and organic ligands linked via noncovalent coordination interactions. MCP NPs offer a promising nanoplatform for reshaping metal ions into more drug-like formulations, improving their in vivo pharmacological performance and therapeutic index for cancer therapy applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the inherent biological functions of metal ions in cancer therapy, showcasing examples of MCP NP systems designed for preclinical cancer therapy applications where drug delivery principles play a critical role in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. MCP NPs offer versatile metal ion engineering approaches using selected metal ions, various organic ligands, and functional payloads, enabling on-demand nano-drug designs that can significantly improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects for effective cancer therapy.

Effective Amplification of Oxidative Stress and Calcium Manipulation Mediated Mitochondrial Dysfunction Based on Engineered Nanozyme for Primary and Metastatic Breast Cancer Therapy

Herein, an engineered nanocomposite (FZSHC) was constructed containing zinc-based nanozyme(ZS), Hemin and Ca2+ ions with further surface modification of phospholipid and folic acid (FA) for primary and metastatic breast cancer therapy. During therapy, the FZSHC initially accumulated in tumor tissues through enhanced permeability and retention effectand FA receptor-mediated tumor-targeting delivery. After that, the FZSHC further dissociated to free Ca2+ and Hemin loaded ZS in the acidic environment of lysosome. The resulting ZS then generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and consumed glutathione via peroxidase and glutathione oxidase mimicking enzyme activities to induce the tumor-specific ferroptosis for primary tumor elimination, in which the ROS production could be further promoted by the Hemin catalyzed Fenton-likereactions to amplify oxidative damage and accelerate the ferroptosis. Furthermore, the ROS also influenced calcium metabolism of tumor cells, causingthe Ca2+-overloading and mitochondrial dysfunction in tumor cell salong with the introduction of exogenous Ca2+, which resulted in the suppression of adenosine triphosphate synthesis to hinder the energy supply of tumor cells for significant inhibition of tumor metastasis. Both in vitro and in vivo results demonstrated the remarkable therapeutic slmult1 efficiencyof FZSHC nanozyme in suppressing the growth and metastasis of breastcancer.

UCNPs@PVP-Hemin-GOx@CaCO3 Nanoplatform for Ferroptosis Self-Amplification Combined with Calcium Overload

Due to the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME), current tumor treatments cannot achieve satisfactory results. A nanocomposite material, UCNPs@PVP-Hemin-GOx@CaCO3 (UPHGC NPs) is developed that responds to the TME and controls release to achieve multimodal synergistic therapy in tumor tissues. UPHGC NPs mediate photodynamic therapy (PDT), chemodynamic therapy (CDT), and starvation therapy (ST) synergistically, ultimately inducing self-amplification of ferroptosis. The Hemin loaded in UPHGC NPs exhibits peroxidase (POD) activity, which can react with H2O2 to produce ·OH (CDT) and generate the maximum amount of ·O2 - (PDT) under UV excitation from upconversion materials. Hemin can also consume glutathione (GSH), downregulate glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and combine with PDT/CDT to induce lipid peroxidation (LPO), leading to ferroptosis. In addition, Glucose oxidase (GOx) provides sufficient H2O2 for the ·OH production, amplifying ROS generation to further enhance ferroptosis. The gluconic acid produced by GOx during the ST process synergizes with the TME's acidic conditions to promote Ca2+ release, induce intracellular calcium overload, enhance oxidative stress, lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, and ultimately kill tumor cells through mitochondrial damage. Furthermore, the externally mineralized calcium carbonate can prevent premature drug release in normal tissues.

Immunostimulatory Hydrogel with Synergistic Blockage of Glutamine Metabolism and Chemodynamic Therapy for Postoperative Management of Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most lethal malignant brain tumors in the central nervous system. Patients face many challenges after surgery, including tumor recurrence, intracranial pressure increase due to cavitation, and limitations associated with immediate postoperative oral chemotherapy. Here an injected peptide gel with in situ immunostimulatory functions is developed to coordinate the regulation of glutamine metabolism and chemodynamic therapy for overcoming these postoperative obstacles. The methodology entails crafting injectable gel scaffolds with short peptide molecules, incorporating the glutaminase inhibitor CB-839 and copper peptide self-assembled particles (Cu-His NPs) renowned for their chemodynamic therapy (CDT) efficacy. By fine-tuning glutamic acid production via metabolic pathways, this system not only heightens the therapeutic prowess of copper peptide particles in CDT but also escalates intracellular oxidative stress. This dual mechanism culminates in augmented immunogenic cell death within glioblastoma multiforme cells and improves a conducive immune microenvironment. Based on the concept of metabolic reprogramming, this treatment strategy has great potential to significantly reduce GBM tumor recurrence and prolong median survival in murine models.

In situ construction of heterojunctions to regulate the biodegradation behavior of copper carriers for tumor-specific cuproptosis-enhanced sono-immunotherapy

Cuproptosis, a novel approach utilizing copper carriers to trigger programmed cell death, exhibits promise for enhancing traditional therapies and activating robust adaptive immune responses. However, the uncontrolled release of Cu ions risks triggering cuproptosis in healthy tissues, potentially causing irreversible damage. To address this, we report on the use of a Cu-MOF (copper metal-organic framework) protective layer to regulate the biodegradation of copper-based nanomaterials. In situ formation of Cu-MOF on Cu2O nanocubes not only stabilizes the material under physiological conditions but also enhances its sonodynamic therapy (SDT) capabilities by establishing a Z-Scheme heterojunction. Upon SDT activation, the targeted Cu ion release at the tumor site triggers a cascade of reactions, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) via Fenton-like processes and depleting glutathione (GSH). This ROS surge, combined with effective cuproptosis, modulates the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, inducing immunogenic cell death to eliminate primary tumors and inhibit metastasis. This study offers a new paradigm for the controlled integration of SDT, chemodynamic therapy (CDT), cuproptosis, and immunotherapy, achieving precise tumor-targeted treatment via controlled copper nanomaterial degradation.

Engineered Metal-Organic Framework with Stereotactic Anchoring and Spatial Separation of Porphyrins for Amplified Ultrasound-Mediated Pyroptosis and Cancer Immunotherapy

Ultrasound-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation is pivotal in specifically inducing pyroptosis of tumor cells. However, the effectiveness of pyroptosis is generally hindered by the constraints of ROS generation efficiency. Herein, a new porphyrin-based metal-organic framework (Fe(TCPP)-MOF) was rationally designed via an innovative dual-solvent strategy to amplify ROS generation for ultrasound-controlled pyroptosis. The crystal structure of Fe(TCPP)-MOF was elucidated by continuous rotation electron diffraction technique, revealing its regular and rigid conformation. The porphyrin molecules were precisely oriented and firmly confined within the scaffold, effectively restricting intramolecular motion. The ample distance of 6.8 Å between two porphyrin molecules, combined with the interaction region indicator visualization, confirmed the absence of π-π stacking interactions in the Fe(TCPP)-MOF framework, thereby avoiding the aggregation-caused quenching effect. Furthermore, the permanent porosity and expansive surface area of Fe(TCPP)-MOF enhanced its interaction with oxygen. These ingenious structural features endowed Fe(TCPP)-MOF with a unique ability to generate a large amount of singlet oxygen under ultrasound activation. Meanwhile, the impetus of ultrasound also accelerated the rate of the Fenton reaction catalyzed by iron ions, significantly boosting the generation of hydroxyl radicals. Benefiting from the dual amplification of ROS, Fe(TCPP)-MOF could efficiently induce tumor cells pyroptosis under ultrasound stimulation, thereby intensifying the potency of cancer immunotherapy.

Perturbing Organelle-Level K+/Ca2+ Homeostasis by Nanotherapeutics for Enhancing Ion-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy

Intracellular ions are involved in numerous pivotal immune processes, but the precise regulation of these signaling ions to achieve innovative immune therapeutic strategies is still a huge challenge. Here, an ion-mediated immunotherapy agent (IMIA) is engineered to achieve precise spatiotemporal control of perturbing K+/Ca2+ homeostasis at the organelle-level, thereby amplifying antitumor immune responses to achieve high-performance cancer therapy. By taking in intracellular K+ and supplying exogenous Ca2+ within tumor cells, K+/Ca2+ homeostasis is perturbed by IMIA. In parallel, perturbing K+ homeostasis induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress triggers the release of Ca2+ from ER and causes a decreased concentration of Ca2+ in ER, which further accelerates ER-mitochondria Ca2+ flux and the influx of extracellular Ca2+ (store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE)) via opening Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels, thus creating a self-amplifying ion interference loop to perturb K+/Ca2+ homeostasis. In this process, the elevated immunogenicity of tumor cells would evoke robust antitumor immune responses by driving the excretion of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). Importantly, this ion-immunotherapy strategy reshapes the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), and awakens the systemic immune response and long-term immune memory effect, thus effectively inhibiting the growth of primary/distant tumors, orthotopic tumors as well as metastatic tumors in different mice models.

Graphene Quantum Dot Sensitized Heterojunctions Induce Tumor-Specific Cuproptosis to Boost Sonodynamic and Chemodynamic Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy

Cuproptosis that utilizes copper ionophore to induce programmed cell death holds promise for enhancing the effectiveness of conventional anticancer therapies and triggering efficient adaptive immune responses. However, the non-tumor-specific release of Cu ions can induce cuproptosis and cause irreversible damage to normal tissues. To maximize the therapeutic effects of tumor-specific cuproptosis, this work reports for the first time the regulation of degradation behaviors of Cu-based nanomaterials using graphene quantum dots (GQDs) as a protection layer. The deposition of GQDs not only avoids the degradation of Cu2O nanocubes under normal physiological conditions, but also sensitizes their sonodynamic activity due to the formation of Z-scheme heterojunctions. The tumor-specific released Cu ions achieve the cascade amplification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation through Cu+-mediated Fenton-like reaction and Cu2+-facilitated GSH depletion. More importantly, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) can be reversed by the greatly enhanced ROS levels and high-efficiency cuproptosis, ultimately inducing immunogenic cell death that promotes robust systemic immune responses for the eradication of primary tumors and suppression of distant tumors. This work provides a novel paradigm for the integration of SDT, CDT, cuproptosis, and immunotherapy in a controlled manner to achieve tumor-specific antitumor therapy by controlling the degradation behaviors of Cu-based nanomaterials.

Ca2+- and cGAMP-Contained Semiconducting Polymer Nanomessengers for Radiodynamic-Activated Calcium Overload and Immunotherapy

Various second messengers exert some vital actions in biological systems, including cancer therapy, but the therapeutic efficacy is often need to be improved. A semiconducting polymer nanomessenger (TCa/SPN/a) consisting of two second messengers, calcium ion (Ca2+) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) for metastatic breast cancer therapy, is reported here. Such a TCa/SPN/a is constructed to exhibit X-ray response for the activatable delivery of mitochondria-targeting Ca compound and cGAMP as stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist. With X-ray irradiation, TCa/SPN/a could generate singlet oxygen (1O2) via radiodynamic effect for ablating solid tumors and improving the tumor immunogenicity by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD). Furthermore, the released mitochondria-targeting Ca compounds show a high binging effect on mitochondria and cause reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondria damage via calcium overload, while cGAMP boosts immunological effect through activating STING pathway. In this way, TCa/SPN/a enables a radiodynamic-activated calcium overload and immunotherapy to obviously inhibit the growths of bilateral tumors and also abolish tumor metastasis in metastatic breast cancer mouse models. This article should demonstrate the first smart dual-functional nanotherapeutic containing two second messengers for precise and specific cancer therapy.

Aggregation-Induced Emission Luminogens for Plant Photodynamic Seed Sterilization

Pathogen-carrying seeds can significantly impact plant growth and development and may lead to serious public health incidents. Modern agriculture heavily relies on synthetic chemical microbicides and physical methods to eradicate pathogens transmitted by plant seeds. To counteract the misuse of microbicides, a class of cationic amphiphilic aggregate-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) are developed as photodynamic seed sterilization agents. AIEgens function as antimicrobial agents in seed treatment. These materials are engineered to specifically bind to pathogenic microorganisms on seed surfaces. Furthermore, when combined with photodynamic therapy, AIEgens can be activated to produce reactive oxygen species that selectively destroy pathogens. Sterilization experiments with tomato seeds carrying Pseudomonas syringae and mung bean seeds carrying Pseudomonas aeruginosa demonstrate that AIEgens can effectively eliminate both plant and animal pathogens carried by seeds. Therefore, AIEgens offer a promising solution for preventing the spread of seed-borne pathogens.

A high-contrast NIR excitation probe for monitoring Cu2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum for synergistic cuproptosis and ferroptosis anticancer therapy

Currently, the study of cuproptosis focuses on the Cu2+-induced morphology changes in mitochondria (Mito), and the observation of the effect of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-related Cu2+ content on cuproptosis is relatively lacking. Herein, we have developed a hydroxyflavone (HF)-based NIR excited two-photon fluorescent probe, BHCO, that exhibits specific recognition of Cu2+ with high resolution. BHCO-Cu2+ (Cu2BC) can lead to DLAT protein aggregation, triggering cuproptosis. Furthermore, Cu2BC can upregulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) under 720 nm excitation, which facilitates ferroptosis. The synergistic effect of ferroptosis and cuproptosis leads to the damage of cellular mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, resulting in the severe death of cancer cells. We are firmly convinced that our nonlinear optical (NLO) small molecule probe for monitoring Cu2+ could provide a valid tool for rapid tumor elimination through synergistic ferroptosis and cuproptosis.

Bimetallic doped carbon dot nanozymes for enhanced sonodynamic and nanocatalytic therapy

Conventional inorganic semiconductors are not suitable for acting as nanozymes or sonosensitizers for in vivo therapeutic nanomedicine owing to the lack of excellent biocompatibility. Biocompatible carbon dots (CDs) exhibit a variety of biological activities due to their adjustable size and surface chemical modification; however, the simultaneous sonodynamic activity and multiple enzyme-mimicking catalytic activity of a single CD have not been reported. Herein, we report the development of bimetallic doped CDs as a high-efficiency nanozyme and sonosensitizer for enhanced sonodynamic therapy (SDT) and nanocatalytic therapy (NCT). By selecting metal-organic complexes like EDTA-FeNa as the carbon source, we ensure that the coordination environments of metal atoms are preserved throughout the low-temperature calcination process. Compared with the single metal doped CDs including Fe-CDs or Ni-CDs, the obtained Fe and Ni co-doped CDs (Fe-Ni-CDs) not only exhibit enhanced sonodynamic activity owing to the decreased bandgap, but also possess augmented dual enzyme-mimicking catalytic activities due to the synergistic effect of bimetallic ions. The Fe-Ni-CD-mediated cascade amplification of ROS generation could lead to the production of 1O2 and O2˙- through SDT, the generation of ˙OH through POD-mimicking catalytic activity, and the provision of more O2 for SDT through CAT-mimicking catalytic activity. Through the integrated multifunctionality of Fe-Ni-CDs, we successfully enhanced the effectiveness of antitumor treatment with a single drug injection and a single US irradiation for enhanced SDT and NCT. This work provides a distinct paradigm of endowing CDs with sonodynamic and multiple enzyme-mimicking catalytic activities for enhanced SDT and NCT through bimetallic ion doping.

A Hybrid Alloying Nanozyme-Glutathione Inhibitor Co-Delivery System Initiates a Dual-Disruption on Cancer Redox Homeostasis

Altered redox homeostasis has long been observed in cancer cells, which can be exploited for therapeutic benefits. However, reactive oxygen species (ROS) pleiotropy coupling with reductive adaptation in cancer cells poses a formidable challenge for redox dyshomeostasis-based cancer therapy. Herein, a AuPd alloying nanozyme-glutathione (GSH) biosynthesis inhibitor co-delivery system (B-BMES) is developed using dendritic SiO2 as a matrix to target cancer redox homeostasis. By optimizing element composition, the alloying nanozyme in B-BMES exhibits a potent peroxidase (POD)-like activity to trigger ROS insults-mediated redox dyshomeostasis. Such a POD functionality is attributed to the optimized electronic structure and catalytic activity. Simultaneously, the B-BMES abrogates the reductive adaptation by exerting its molecule-targeted GSH suppression, thereby achieving a dual-disruption on cancer redox homeostasis. Camouflaging B-BMES with tumor-homologous cytomembrane, a hybrid nanosystem with biological stability and tumor-targeting ability is further fabricated, which initiates a safe, precise redox disruption-based cancer therapy and sensibilizes standard chemotherapy.

Acid-responsive liposomal nanodrug with promoted tumor penetration for photoacoustic imaging-guided sonodynamic therapy

Herein, an acid-responsive liposomal nanodrug was developed for photoacoustic (PA) imaging-guided oxygen (O2)-independent sonodynamic therapy (SDT). This liposomal nanodrug offers several advantages: (i) it facilitates O2-independent alkyl radical generation upon ultrasound irradiation, (ii) it exhibits acid-responsive charge reversion that enhances tumor penetration, and (iii) it enables activated PA imaging for therapeutic feedback.

A Robust ROS Generation and Ferroptotic Lipid Modulation Nanosystem for Mutual Reinforcement of Ferroptosis and Cancer Immunotherapy

Ferroptosis initiation is often utilized for synergistic immunotherapy. While, current immunotherapy is limited by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), and ferroptosis is limited by insufficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ferroptotic lipids in tumor cells. Here, an arachidonic acid (AA) loaded nanosystem (CTFAP) is developed to mutually reinforce ferroptosis and cancer immunotherapy by augmenting ROS generation and modulating ferroptotic lipids. CTFAP is composed of acid-responsive core calcium peroxide (CaO2) nanoparticles, ferroptotic lipids sponsor AA, tetracarboxylic porphyrin (TCPP) and Fe3+ based metal-organic framework structure, and biocompatible mPEG-DSPE for improved stability. Once endocytosed by tumor cells, CTFAP can release oxygen (O2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the acidic TME, facilitating TCPP-based sonodynamic therapy and Fe3+-mediated Fenton-like reactions to generate substantial ROS for cell ferroptosis initiation. The immunogenic cell death (ICD) after ferroptosis promotes interferon γ (IFN-γ) secretion to up-regulate the expression of long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), cooperating with the released AA from CTFAP to accelerate the accumulation of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and thereby promoting ferroptosis in cancer cells.CTFAP with ultrasound treatment efficiently suppresses tumor growth, has great potential to challenges in cancer immunotherapy.

Photo-Activated Oxidative Stress Amplifier: A Strategy for Targeting Glutathione Metabolism and Enhancing ROS-Mediated Therapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Treatment

Amplifying oxidative stress within tumor cells can effectively inhibit the growth and metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, the development of innovative nanomedicines that can effectively disrupt the redox balance represents a promising yet challenging therapeutic strategy for TNBC. In this study, an oxidative stress amplifier, denoted as PBCH, comprising PdAg mesoporous nanozyme and a CaP mineralized layer, loaded with GSH inhibitor L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), and further surface-modified with hyaluronic acid that can target CD44, is introduced. In the acidic tumor microenvironment, Ca2+ is initially released, thereby leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and eventually triggering apoptosis. Additionally, BSO suppresses the synthesis of intracellular reduced GSH and further amplifies the level of oxidative stress in cancer cells. Furthermore, PdAg nanozyme can be activated by near-infrared light to induce photothermal and photodynamic effects, causing a burst of ROS and simultaneously promoting cell apoptosis via provoking immunogenic cell death. The high-performance therapeutic effects of PBCH, based on the synergistic effect of aforementioned multiple oxidative damage and photothermal ablation, are validated in TNBC cells and animal models, declaring its potential as a safe and effective anti-tumor agent. The proposed approach offers new perspectives for precise and efficient treatment of TNBC.

Nanomaterial-based regulation of redox metabolism for enhancing cancer therapy

Altered redox metabolism is one of the hallmarks of tumor cells, which not only contributes to tumor proliferation, metastasis, and immune evasion, but also has great relevance to therapeutic resistance. Therefore, regulation of redox metabolism of tumor cells has been proposed as an attractive therapeutic strategy to inhibit tumor growth and reverse therapeutic resistance. In this respect, nanomedicines have exhibited significant therapeutic advantages as intensively reported in recent studies. In this review, we would like to summarize the latest advances in nanomaterial-assisted strategies for redox metabolic regulation therapy, with a focus on the regulation of redox metabolism-related metabolite levels, enzyme activity, and signaling pathways. In the end, future expectations and challenges of such emerging strategies have been discussed, hoping to enlighten and promote their further development for meeting the various demands of advanced cancer therapies. It is highly expected that these therapeutic strategies based on redox metabolism regulation will play a more important role in the field of nanomedicine.

Nanosonosensitizer Optimization for Enhanced Sonodynamic Disease Treatment

Low-intensity ultrasound-mediated sonodynamic therapy (SDT), which, by design, integrates sonosensitizers and molecular oxygen to generate therapeutic substances (e.g., toxic hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions, or singlet oxygen) at disease sites, has shown enormous potential for the effective treatment of a variety of diseases. Nanoscale sonosensitizers play a crucial role in the SDT process because their structural, compositional, physicochemical, and biological characteristics are key determinants of therapeutic efficacy. In particular, advances in materials science and nanotechnology have invigorated a series of optimization strategies for augmenting the therapeutic efficacy of nanosonosensitizers. This comprehensive review systematically summarizes, discusses, and highlights state-of-the-art studies on the current achievements of nanosonosensitizer optimization in enhanced sonodynamic disease treatment, with an emphasis on the general design principles of nanosonosensitizers and their optimization strategies, mainly including organic and inorganic nanosonosensitizers. Additionally, recent advancements in optimized nanosonosensitizers for therapeutic applications aimed at treating various diseases, such as cancer, bacterial infections, atherosclerosis, and autoimmune diseases, are clarified in detail. Furthermore, the biological effects of the improved nanosonosensitizers for versatile SDT applications are thoroughly discussed. The review concludes by highlighting the current challenges and future opportunities in this rapidly evolving research field to expedite its practical clinical translation and application.

Optical Fiber-Enabled In Situ Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation for Infiltrating Tumor Therapy in Brain

In addition to repressing proliferation, inhibiting the infiltration of tumor cells is an important strategy to improve the treatment of malignant tumors. Herein, a photocatalyst (pCNMC@Pt) is designed by sequentially assembling manganese dioxide, chlorin e6, and platinum (Pt) nanoparticles onto protonated graphitic carbon nitride. With the help of a Z-scheme structure and near-infrared (NIR) photosensitizer, pCNMC@Pt is capable of responding to NIR light to generate large amounts of hydrogen (H2). Taking lactic acid in the tumor microenvironment as a sacrificial reagent, H2 therapy initiated by the NIR photocatalyst remarkably impedes the growth of glioblastoma (GBM). More importantly, it is found that H2 can suppress the stemness of glioma stem cells, curbing both proliferation and infiltration of GBM. Furthermore, since pCNMC@Pt and light source are precisely co-localized through a self-built loading and illumination system, GBM in mouse brains can be efficiently treated, providing an alternative gas therapy approach to cure infiltrating tumors.

Hollow Calcium/Copper Bimetallic Amplifier for Cuproptosis/Paraptosis/Apoptosis Cancer Therapy via Cascade Reinforcement of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria are essential organelles that play crucial roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The simultaneous induction of ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction represents a promising yet challenging strategy for cancer treatment. Herein, a hollow calcium-copper bimetallic nanoplatform is developed as a cascade amplifier to reinforce ER stress and mitochondrial dysfunction for breast cancer treatment. For this purpose, we report a facile method for preparing hollow CaCO3 (HCC) nanoparticles by regulating the dissolution-recrystallization process of amorphous CaCO3, and the amplifier D@HCC-CuTH is meticulously fabricated by sequentially coating disulfiram-loaded HCC nanoparticles with a copper coordination polymer and hyaluronan. In tumor cells, the dithiocarbamate-copper complex generated in situ by liberated disulfiram and Cu2+ inhibits the ubiquitin-proteasome system, causing irreversible ER stress and intracellular Ca2+ redistribution. Meanwhile, the amplifier induces mitochondrial dysfunction via triggering a self-amplifying loop of mitochondrial Ca2+ burst, and reactive oxygen species augment. Additionally, Cu2+ induces dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase oligomerization in mitochondria, further exacerbating mitochondrial damage via cuproptosis. Collectively, ER stress amplification and mitochondrial dysfunction synergistically induce a cuproptosis-paraptosis-apoptosis trimodal cell death pathway, which demonstrates significant efficacy in suppressing tumor growth. This study presents a paradigm for synchronously inducing subcellular organelle disorders to boost cancer multimodal therapy.

Zn/Pt dual-site single-atom driven difunctional superimposition-augmented sonosensitizer for sonodynamic therapy boosted ferroptosis of cancer

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) as a non-invasive antitumor strategy has been widely concerned. However, the rapid electron (e-) and hole (h+) recombination of traditional inorganic semiconductor sonosensitizers under ultrasonic (US) stimulation greatly limits the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Herein, we report a unique Zn/Pt dual-site single-atom driven difunctional superimposition-augmented TiO2-based sonosensitizer (Zn/Pt SATs). Initially, we verify through theoretical calculation that the strongly coupled Zn and Pt atoms can assist electron excitation at the atomic level by increasing electron conductivity and excitation efficiency under US, respectively, thus effectively improving the yield of ROS. Additionally, Zn/Pt SATs can significantly enhance ferroptosis by producing more ROS and sonoexcited holes under US stimuli. Therefore, the establishment of dual-site single-atom system represents an innovative strategy to enhance SDT in cancer model of female mice and provides a typical example for the development of inorganic sonosensitizer in the field of antitumor therapy.

Recent Advancements in Ultrasound Contrast Agents Based on Nanomaterials for Imaging

Ultrasound (US) is a type of mechanical wave that is capable of transmitting energy through biological tissues. By utilization of various frequencies and intensities, it can elicit specific biological effects. US imaging (USI) technology has been continuously developed with the advantages of safety and the absence of radiation. The advancement of nanotechnology has led to the utilization of various nanomaterials composed of both organic and inorganic compounds as ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs). These UCAs enhance USI, enabling real-time monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, thereby facilitating the widespread adoption of UCAs in precision medicine. In this review, we introduce various UCAs based on nanomaterials for USI. Their principles can be roughly divided into the following categories: carrying and transporting gases, endogenous gas production, and the structural characteristics of the nanomaterial itself. Furthermore, the synergistic benefits of US in conjunction with various imaging modalities and their combined application in disease monitoring and diagnosis are introduced. In addition, the challenges and prospects for the development of UCAs are also discussed.

Bone targeted nano-drug and nano-delivery

There are currently no targeted delivery systems to satisfactorily treat bone-related disorders. Many clinical drugs consisting of small organic molecules have a short circulation half-life and do not effectively reach the diseased tissue site. This coupled with repeatedly high dose usage that leads to severe side effects. With the advance in nanotechnology, drugs contained within a nano-delivery device or drugs aggregated into nanoparticles (nano-drugs) have shown promises in targeted drug delivery. The ability to design nanoparticles to target bone has attracted many researchers to develop new systems for treating bone related diseases and even repurposing current drug therapies. In this review, we shall summarise the latest progress in this area and present a perspective for future development in the field. We will focus on calcium-based nanoparticle systems that modulate calcium metabolism and consequently, the bone microenvironment to inhibit disease progression (including cancer). We shall also review the bone affinity drug family, bisphosphonates, as both a nano-drug and nano-delivery system for bone targeted therapy. The ability to target and release the drug in a controlled manner at the disease site represents a promising safe therapy to treat bone diseases in the future.

Graphene Quantum Dots Nanoantibiotic-Sensitized TiO2- x Heterojunctions for Sonodynamic-Nanocatalytic Therapy of Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections

The exploration of sonodynamic therapy (SDT) as a possible replacement for antibiotics by creating reactive oxygen species (ROS) is suggested as a non-drug-resistant theranostic method. However, the low-efficiency ROS generation and complex tumor microenvironment which can deplete ROS and promote tumor growth will cause the compromised antibacterial efficacy of SDT. Herein, through an oxygen vacancy engineering strategy, TiO2- x microspheres with an abundance of Ti3+ are synthesized using a straightforward reductant co-assembly approach. The narrow bandgaps and Ti3+/Ti4+-mediated multiple-enzyme catalytic activities of the obtained TiO2- x microspheres make them suitable for use as sonosensitizers and nanozymes. When graphene quantum dot (GQD) nanoantibiotics are deposited on TiO2- x microspheres, the resulting GQD/TiO2- x shows an increased production of ROS, which can be ascribed to the accelerated separation of electron-hole pairs, as well as the peroxidase-like catalytic activity mediated by Ti3+, and the depletion of glutathione mediated by Ti4+. Moreover, the catalytic activities of TiO2- x microspheres are amplified by the heterojunctions-accelerated carrier transfer. In addition, GQDs can inhibit Topo I, displaying strong antibacterial activity and further enhancing the antibacterial activity. Collectively, the combination of GQD/TiO2- x-mediated SDT/NCT with nanoantibiotics can result in a synergistic effect, allowing for multimodal antibacterial treatment that effectively promotes wound healing.

Multifunctional Biomimetic Nanocarriers for Dual-Targeted Immuno-Gene Therapy Against Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Growing evidences have proved that tumors evade recognition and attack by the immune system through immune escape mechanisms, and PDL1/Pbrm1 genes have a strong correlation with poor response or resistance to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Herein, a multifunctional biomimetic nanocarrier (siRNA-CaP@PD1-NVs) is developed, which can not only enhance the cytotoxic activity of immune cells by blocking PD1/PDL1 axis, but also reduce tumor immune escape via Pbrm1/PDL1 gene silencing, leading to a significant improvement in tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. Consequently, the nanocarrier promotes DC cell maturation, enhances the infiltration and activity of CD8+ T cells, and forms long-term immune memory, which can effectively inhibit tumor growth or even eliminate tumors, and prevent tumor recurrence and metastasis. Overall, this study presents a powerful strategy for co-delivery of siRNA drugs, immune adjuvant, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, and holds great promise for improving the effectiveness and safety of current immunotherapy regimens.

An iron-based metal-organic framework nanoplatform for enhanced ferroptosis and oridonin delivery as a comprehensive antitumor strategy

Ferroptosis is a recently discovered pathway for regulated cell death pathway. However, its efficacy is affected by limited iron content and intracellular ion homeostasis. Here, we designed a metal-organic framework (MOF)-based nanoplatform that incorporates calcium peroxide (CaO2) and oridonin (ORI). This platform can improve the tumor microenvironment and disrupt intracellular iron homeostasis, thereby enhancing ferroptosis therapy. Fused cell membranes (FM) were used to modify nanoparticles (ORI@CaO2@Fe-TCPP, NPs) to produce FM@ORI@CaO2@Fe-TCPP (FM@NPs). The encapsulated ORI inhibited the HSPB1/PCBP1/IREB2 and FSP1/COQ10 pathways simultaneously, working in tandem with Fe3+ to induce ferroptosis. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) guided by porphyrin (TCPP) significantly enhanced ferroptosis through excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This self-amplifying strategy promoted robust ferroptosis, which could work synergistically with FM-mediated immunotherapy. In vivo experiments showed that FM@NPs inhibited 91.57% of melanoma cells within six days, a rate 5.6 times higher than chemotherapy alone. FM@NPs were biodegraded and directly eliminated in the urine or faeces without substantial toxicity. Thus, this study demonstrated that combining immunotherapy with efficient ferroptosis induction through nanotechnology is a feasible and promising strategy for melanoma treatment.

5-Fluorouracil in Combination with Calcium Carbonate Nanoparticles Loaded with Antioxidant Thymoquinone against Colon Cancer: Synergistically Therapeutic Potential and Underlying Molecular Mechanism

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, with high mortality. Adverse side effects and chemoresistance of the first-line chemotherapy 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) have promoted the widespread use of combination therapies. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a natural compound with potent antioxidant activity. Loading antioxidants into nano delivery systems has been a major advance in enhancing their bioavailability to improve clinical application. Hence, this study aimed to prepare the optimal TQ-loaded calcium carbonate nanoparticles (TQ-CaCO3 NPs) and investigate their therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of TQ-CaCO3 NPs in combination with 5-FU against colon cancer. Firstly, we developed purely aragonite CaCO3 NPs with a facile mechanical ball-milling method. The pH-sensitive and biocompatible TQ-CaCO3 NPs with sustained release properties were prepared using the optimal synthesized method (a high-speed homogenizer). The in vitro study revealed that the combination of TQ-CaCO3 NPs (15 μM) and 5-FU (7.5 μM) inhibited CT26 cell proliferation and migration, induced cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, and suppressed the CT26 spheroid growth, exhibiting a synergistic effect. Finally, network pharmacology and molecular docking results indicated the potential targets and crucial signaling pathways of TQ-CaCO3 NPs in combination with 5-FU against colon cancer. Therefore, TQ-CaCO3 NPs combined with 5-FU could enhance the anti-colon cancer effects of 5-FU with broader therapeutic targets, warranting further application for colon cancer treatment.

Synergistic Regulation of Targeted Organelles in Tumor Cells to Promote Photothermal-Immunotherapy Using Intelligent Core-Satellite-Like Nanoparticles for Effective Treatment of Breast Cancer

The normal operation of organelles is critical for tumor growth and metastasis. Herein, an intelligent nanoplatform (BMAEF) is fabricated to perform on-demand destruction of mitochondria and golgi apparatus, which also generates the enhanced photothermal-immunotherapy, resulting in the effective inhibition of primary and metastasis tumor. The BMAEF has a core of mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with brefeldin A (BM), which is connected to ethylenebis(oxyethylenenitrilo)tetraacetic acid (EGTA) and folic acid co-modified gold nanoparticles (AEF). During therapy, the BMAEF first accumulates in tumor cells via folic acid-induced targeting. Subsequently, the schiff base/ester bond cleaves in lysosome to release brefeldin A and AEF with exposed EGTA. The EGTA further captures Ca2+ to block ion transfer among mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and golgi apparatus, which not only induced dysfunction of mitochondria and golgi apparatus assisted by brefeldin A to suppress both energy and material metabolism against tumor growth and metastasis, but causes AEF aggregation for tumor-specific photothermal therapy and photothermal assisted immunotherapy. Moreover, the dysfunction of these organelles also stops the production of BMI1 and heat shock protein 70 to further enhance the metastasis inhibition and photothermal therapy, which meanwhile triggers the escape of cytochrome C to cytoplasm, leading to additional apoptosis of tumor cells.

On the role of disjoining pressure in nanofluid-assisted enhanced oil recovery: a mini-review

Nanofluid application in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) recently emerged and garnered significant attention within the field. Nanofluids possess unique properties of reducing oil-water interfacial tension, stabilizing emulsions, altering rock surface wettability, and enhancing disjoining pressure between crude oil and rock surfaces, therefore have potential for the oil recovery process. This review provides an in-depth exploration of various aspects related to nanofluids in EOR. Different types of nanofluids are presented with their preparation methods and representative properties. More importantly, the disjoining pressure, a key physical concept in nanofluid-assisted EOR, is introduced and discussed in terms of the mechanism of oil displacement and measurement methods. Further understanding the role of disjoining pressure in nanofluid-assisted oil displacement is necessary for the development and application of effective nanofluids for EOR.

Ultrasound-Based Micro-/Nanosystems for Biomedical Applications

Due to the intrinsic non-invasive nature, cost-effectiveness, high safety, and real-time capabilities, besides diagnostic imaging, ultrasound as a typical mechanical wave has been extensively developed as a physical tool for versatile biomedical applications. Especially, the prosperity of nanotechnology and nanomedicine invigorates the landscape of ultrasound-based medicine. The unprecedented surge in research enthusiasm and dedicated efforts have led to a mass of multifunctional micro-/nanosystems being applied in ultrasound biomedicine, facilitating precise diagnosis, effective treatment, and personalized theranostics. The effective deployment of versatile ultrasound-based micro-/nanosystems in biomedical applications is rooted in a profound understanding of the relationship among composition, structure, property, bioactivity, application, and performance. In this comprehensive review, we elaborate on the general principles regarding the design, synthesis, functionalization, and optimization of ultrasound-based micro-/nanosystems for abundant biomedical applications. In particular, recent advancements in ultrasound-based micro-/nanosystems for diagnostic imaging are meticulously summarized. Furthermore, we systematically elucidate state-of-the-art studies concerning recent progress in ultrasound-based micro-/nanosystems for therapeutic applications targeting various pathological abnormalities including cancer, bacterial infection, brain diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic diseases. Finally, we conclude and provide an outlook on this research field with an in-depth discussion of the challenges faced and future developments for further extensive clinical translation and application.

A Dual-Channel Ca2+ Nanomodulator Induces Intracellular Ca2+ Disorders via Endogenous Ca2+ Redistribution for Tumor Radiosensitization

Tumor cells harness Ca2+ to maintain cellular homeostasis and withstand external stresses from various treatments. Here, a dual-channel Ca2+ nanomodulator (CAP-P-NO) is constructed that can induce irreversible intracellular Ca2+ disorders via the redistribution of tumor-inherent Ca2+ for disrupting cellular homeostasis and thus improving tumor radiosensitivity. Stimulated by tumor-overexpressed acid and glutathione, capsaicin and nitric oxide are successively escaped from CAP-P-NO to activate the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 and the ryanodine receptor for the influx of extracellular Ca2+ and the release of Ca2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum, respectively. The overwhelming level of Ca2+ in tumor cells not only impairs the function of organelles but also induces widespread changes in the gene transcriptome, including the downregulation of a set of radioresistance-associated genes. Combining CAP-P-NO treatment with radiotherapy achieves a significant suppression against both pancreatic and patient-derived hepatic tumors with negligible side effects. Together, the study provides a feasible approach for inducing tumor-specific intracellular Ca2+ overload via endogenous Ca2+ redistribution and demonstrates the great potential of Ca2+ disorder therapy in enhancing the sensitivity for tumor radiotherapy.

Metal-organic frameworks as candidates for tumor sonodynamic therapy: Designable structures for targeted multifunctional transformation

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT), utilizing ultrasound (US) as the trigger, has gained popularity recently as a therapeutic approach with significant potential for treating various diseases. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), characterized by structural flexibility, are prominently emerging in the SDT realm as an innovative type of sonosensitizer, offering functional tunability and biocompatibility. However, due to the inherent limitations of MOFs, such as low reactivity to reactive oxygen species and challenges posed by the complex tumor microenvironment, MOF-based sonosensitizers with singular functions are unable to demonstrate the desired therapeutic efficacy and may pose risks of toxicity, limiting their biological applications to superficial tissues. MOFs generally possess distinctive crystalline structures and properties, and their controlled coordination environments provide a flexible platform for exploring structure-effect relationships and guiding the design and development of MOF-based nanomaterials to unlock their broader potential in biological fields. The primary focus of this paper is to summarize cases involving the modification of different MOF materials and the innovative strategies developed for various complex conditions. The paper outlines the diverse application areas of functionalized MOF-based sonosensitizers in tumor synergistic therapies, highlighting the extensive prospects of SDT. Additionally, challenges confronting SDT are briefly summarized to stimulate increased scientific interest in the practical application of MOFs and the successful clinical translation of SDT. Through these discussions, we strive to foster advancements that lead to early-stage clinical benefits for patients. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: 1. An overview for the progresses in SDT explored from a novel and fundamental perspective. 2. Different modification strategies to improve the MOFs-mediated SDT efficacy are provided. 3. Guidelines for the design of multifunctional MOFs-based sonosensitizers are offered. 4. Powerful tumor ablation potential is reflected in SDT-led synergistic therapies. 5. Future challenges in the field of MOFs-based SDT in clinical translation are suggested.

Ultrasound-augmented enzyodynamic-Ca2+ overload synergetic tumor nanotherapy

The excessive intracellular Ca2+ can induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage and cell apoptosis, which has been extensively explored for tumor therapy. However, the low Ca2+ accumulation originated from Ca2+-based nanosystems substantially weakens the therapeutic effect. Herein, a functional plant polyphenol-appended enzyodynamic nanozyme system CaFe2O4@BSA-curcumin (abbreviation as CFO-CUR) has been rationally designed and engineered to achieve magnified Ca2+ accumulation process, deleterious reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, as well as mitochondrial dysfunction through enzyodynamic-Ca2+ overload synergistic effect. The exogenous Ca2+ released by CaFe2O4 nanozymes under the weakly acidic tumor microenvironment and Ca2+ efflux inhibition by curcumin boost mitochondria-dominant antineoplastic efficiency. The presence of Fe components with multivalent characteristic depletes endogenous glutathione and outputs the incremental ROS due to the oxidase-, peroxidase-, glutathione peroxidase-mimicking activities. The ROS burst-triggered regulation of Ca2+ channels and pumps strengthens the intracellular Ca2+ accumulation. Especially, the exogenous ultrasound stimulation further amplifies mitochondrial damage. Both in vitro and in vivo experimental results affirm the ultrasound-augmented enzyodynamic-Ca2+ overload synergetic tumor inhibition outcomes. This study highlights the role of ultrasound coupled with functional nanozyme in the homeostasis imbalance and function disorder of mitochondria for highly efficient tumor treatment.

Exosome-Inhibiting Polymeric Sonosensitizer for Tumor-Specific Sonodynamic Immunotherapy

Combination cancer immunotherapy based on electromagnetic energy and immunotherapy shows potent anti-cancer efficacy. However, as a factor that mediates tumor metastasis and immune suppression, the impact of tumor exosomes on therapy under electromagnetic energy stimulation remains unclear. Herein, findings indicate that sonodynamic therapy (SDT) increases serum exosome levels by inducing apoptotic exosomes and loosening the tumor extracellular matrix, promoting lung metastasis. To address this problem, an exosome-inhibiting polymeric sonosensitizer (EIPS) selectively inhibiting tumor exosome generation in response to the tumor biomarker is synthesized. EIPS consists of a semiconducting polymer backbone capable of inducing SDT and a poly(ethylene glycol) layer conjugated with a tumor-specific enzyme-responsive exosome inhibitor prodrug. After being cleaved by tumor Cathepsin B, EIPS releases active exosome inhibitors, preventing tumor exosome-mediated immune suppression and lung metastasis. As a result, EIPS elicits robust antitumor effects through the synergistic effect of SDT and tumor exosome inhibition, completely preventing lung metastasis and establishing a long-term immune memory effect. This is the first example showing that combining SDT with tumor-specific exosome inhibition can elicit a potent immune response without the help of typical immune agonists.

A Distinctive Insight into Inorganic Sonosensitizers: Design Principles and Application Domains

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) as a promising non-invasive anti-tumor means features the preferable penetration depth, which nevertheless, usually can't work without sonosensitizers. Sonosensitizers produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of ultrasound to directly kill tumor cells, and concurrently activate anti-tumor immunity especially after integration with tumor microenvironment (TME)-engineered nanobiotechnologies and combined therapy. Current sonosensitizers are classified into organic and inorganic ones, and current most reviews only cover organic sonosensitizers and highlighted their anti-tumor applications. However, there have few specific reviews that focus on inorganic sonosensitizers including their design principles, microenvironment regulation, etc. In this review, inorganic sonosensitizers are first classified according to their design rationales rather than composition, and the action rationales and underlying chemistry features are highlighted. Afterward, what and how TME is regulated based on the inorganic sonosensitizers-based SDT nanoplatform with an emphasis on the TME targets-engineered nanobiotechnologies are elucidated. Additionally, the combined therapy and their applications in non-cancer diseases are also outlined. Finally, the setbacks and challenges, and proposed the potential solutions and future directions is pointed out. This review provides a comprehensive and detailed horizon on inorganic sonosensitizers, and will arouse more attentions on SDT.

A ROS storm generating nanocomposite for enhanced chemodynamic therapy through H2O2 self-supply, GSH depletion and calcium overload

Catalytic generation of toxic hydroxyl radicals (˙OH) from hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is an effective strategy for tumor treatment in chemodynamic therapy (CDT). However, the intrinsic features of the microenvironment in solid tumors, characterized by limited H2O2 and overexpressed glutathione (GSH), severely impede the accumulation of intracellular ˙OH, posing significant challenges. To circumvent these critical issues, in this work, a CaO2-based multifunctional nanocomposite with a surface coating of Cu2+ and L-buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) (named CaO2@Cu-BSO) is designed for enhanced CDT. Taking advantage of the weakly acidic environment of the tumor, the nanocomposite gradually disintegrates, and the exposed CaO2 nanoparticles subsequently decompose to produce H2O2, alleviating the insufficient supply of endogenous H2O2 in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, Cu2+ detached from the surface of CaO2 is reduced by H2O2 and GSH to Cu+ and ROS. Then, Cu+ catalyzes H2O2 to generate highly cytotoxic ˙OH and Cu2+, forming a cyclic catalysis effect for effective CDT. Meanwhile, GSH is depleted by Cu2+ ions to eliminate possible ˙OH scavenging. In addition, the decomposition of CaO2 by TME releases a large amount of free Ca2+, resulting in the accumulation and overload of Ca2+ and mitochondrial damage in tumor cells, further improving CDT efficacy and accelerating tumor apoptosis. Besides, BSO, a molecular inhibitor, decreases GSH production by blocking γ-glutamyl cysteine synthetase. Together, this strategy allows for enhanced CDT efficiency via a ROS storm generation strategy in tumor therapy. The experimental results confirm and demonstrate the satisfactory tumor inhibition effect both in vitro and in vivo.

Understanding the Novel Approach of Nanoferroptosis for Cancer Therapy

As a new form of regulated cell death, ferroptosis has unraveled the unsolicited theory of intrinsic apoptosis resistance by cancer cells. The molecular mechanism of ferroptosis depends on the induction of oxidative stress through excessive reactive oxygen species accumulation and glutathione depletion to damage the structural integrity of cells. Due to their high loading and structural tunability, nanocarriers can escort the delivery of ferro-therapeutics to the desired site through enhanced permeation or retention effect or by active targeting. This review shed light on the necessity of iron in cancer cell growth and the fascinating features of ferroptosis in regulating the cell cycle and metastasis. Additionally, we discussed the effect of ferroptosis-mediated therapy using nanoplatforms and their chemical basis in overcoming the barriers to cancer therapy.

Vacancy-Rich Bismuth-Based Nanosheets for Mitochondrial Destruction via CO Poisoning, Ca2+ Dyshomeostasis, and Oxidative Damage

Mitochondria are core regulators of tumor cell homeostasis, and their damage has become an arresting therapeutic modality against cancer. Despite the development of many mitochondrial-targeted pharmaceutical agents, the exploration of more powerful and multifunctional medications is still underway. Herein, oxygen vacancy-rich BiO2-x wrapped with CaCO3 (named BiO2-x@CaCO3/PEG, BCP) is developed for full-fledged attack on mitochondrial function. After endocytosis of BCP by tumor cells, the CaCO3 shell can be decomposed in the acidic lysosomal compartment, leading to immediate Ca2+ release and CO2 production in the cytoplasm. Near-infrared irradiation enhances the adsorption of CO2 onto BiO2-x defects, which enables highly efficient photocatalysis of CO2-to-CO. Meanwhile, such BiO2-x nanosheets possess catalase-, peroxidase- and oxidase-like catalytic activities under acidic pH conditions, allowing hypoxia relief and the accumulation of diverse reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the tumor microenvironment. Ca2+ overload-induced ion dyshomeostasis, CO-mediated respiratory chain poisoning, ROS-triggered oxidative stress aggravation, and cytosolic hyperoxia can cause severe mitochondrial disorders, which further lead to type I cell death in carcinoma. Not only does BCP cause irreversible apoptosis, but immunogenic cell death is simultaneously triggered to activate antitumor immunity for metastasis inhibition. Collectively, this platform promises high benefits in malignant tumor therapy and may expand the medical applications of bismuth-based nanoagents.

Covalent organic frameworks-derived carbon nanospheres based nanoplatform for tumor specific synergistic therapy via oxidative stress amplification and calcium overload

Combinational therapy in cancer treatment that integrates the merits of different therapies is an effective approach to improve therapeutic outcomes. Herein, a simple nanoplatform (N-CNS-CaO2-HA/Ce6 NCs) that synergized chemodynamic therapy (CDT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and Ca2+ interference therapy (CIT) has been developed to combat hypoxic tumors. With high photothermal effect, excellent peroxidase-like activity, and inherent mesoporous structure, N-doped carbon nanospheres (N-CNSs) were prepared via in situ pyrolysis of an established nanoscale covalent organic frameworks (COFs) precursor. These N-CNSs acted as PTT/CDT agents and carriers for the photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6), thereby yielding a minimally invasive PDT/PTT/CDT synergistic therapy. Hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified CaO2 nanoparticles (CaO2-HA NPs) coated on the surface of the nanoplatform endowed the nanoplatform with O2/H2O2 self-supply capability to respond to and modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME), which greatly facilitated the tumor-specific performance of CDT and PDT. Moreover, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during PDT and CDT enhanced the Ca2+ overloading due to CaO2 decomposition, amplifying the intracellular oxidative stress and leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. Notably, the HA molecules not only increased the cancer-targeting efficiency but also prevented CaO2 degradation during blood circulation, providing double insurance of tumor-selective CIT. Such a nanotherapeutic system possessed boosted antitumor efficacy with minimized systemic toxicity and showed great potential for treating hypoxic tumors.

Application of Nanomaterial-Based Sonodynamic Therapy in Tumor Therapy

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has attracted significant attention in recent years as it is an innovative approach to tumor treatment. It involves the utilization of sound waves or ultrasound (US) to activate acoustic sensitizers, enabling targeted drug release for precise tumor treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of SDT, encompassing its underlying principles and therapeutic mechanisms, the applications of nanomaterials, and potential synergies with combination therapies. The review begins by introducing the fundamental principle of SDT and delving into the intricate mechanisms through which it facilitates tumor treatment. A detailed analysis is presented, outlining how SDT effectively destroys tumor cells by modulating drug release mechanisms. Subsequently, this review explores the diverse range of nanomaterials utilized in SDT applications and highlights their specific contributions to enhancing treatment outcomes. Furthermore, the potential to combine SDT with other therapeutic modalities such as photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy is discussed. These combined approaches aim to synergistically improve therapeutic efficacy while mitigating side effects. In conclusion, SDT emerges as a promising frontier in tumor treatment that offers personalized and effective treatment options with the potential to revolutionize patient care. As research progresses, SDT is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of oncology by providing patients with a broader spectrum of efficacious and tailored treatment options.

Thermodynamically and Kinetically Enhanced Benzene Vapor Sensor Based on the Cu-TCPP-Cu MOF with Extremely Low Limit of Detection

As a carcinogenic and highly neurotoxic hazardous gas, benzene vapor is particularly difficult to be distinguished in BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene) atmosphere and be detected in low concentrations due to its chemical inertness. Herein, we develop a depth-related pore structure in Cu-TCPP-Cu to thermodynamically and kinetically enhance the adsorption of benzene vapor and realize the detection of ultralow-temperature benzene gas. We find that the in-plane π electronic nature and proper pore sizes in Cu-TCPP-Cu can selectively induce the adsorption and diffusion of BTEX. Interestingly, the theoretical calculations (including density functional theory (DFT) and grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations) exhibit that benzene molecules are preferred to adsorb and array as a consecutive arrangement mode in the Cu-TCPP-Cu pore, while the TEX (toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene) dominate the jumping arrangement model. The differences in distribution behaviors can allow adsorption and diffusion of more benzene molecules within limited room. Furthermore, the optimal pore-depth range (60-65 nm) of Cu-TCPP-Cu allows more exposure of active sites and hinders the gas-blocking process. The optimized sensor exhibits ultrahigh sensitivity to benzene vapor (155 Hz/μg@1 ppm), fast response time (less than 10 s), extremely low limit of detection (65 ppb), and excellent selectivity (83%). Our research thus provides a fundamental understanding to design and optimize two-dimensional metal-organic framework (MOF)-based gas sensors.

CaCO3 nanoplatform for cancer treatment: drug delivery and combination therapy

The use of nanocarriers for drug delivery has opened up exciting new possibilities in cancer treatment. Among them, calcium carbonate (CaCO3) nanocarriers have emerged as a promising platform due to their exceptional biocompatibility, biosafety, cost-effectiveness, wide availability, and pH-responsiveness. These nanocarriers can efficiently encapsulate a variety of small-molecule drugs, proteins, and nucleic acids, as well as co-encapsulate multiple drugs, providing targeted and sustained drug release with minimal side effects. However, the effectiveness of single-drug therapy using CaCO3 nanocarriers is limited by factors such as multidrug resistance, tumor metastasis, and recurrence. Combination therapy, which integrates multiple treatment modalities, offers a promising approach for tackling these challenges by enhancing efficacy, leveraging synergistic effects, optimizing therapy utilization, tailoring treatment approaches, reducing drug resistance, and minimizing side effects. CaCO3 nanocarriers can be employed for combination therapy by integrating drug therapy with photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, radiofrequency ablation therapy, and imaging. This review provides an overview of recent advancements in CaCO3 nanocarriers for drug delivery and combination therapy in cancer treatment over the past five years. Furthermore, insightful perspectives on future research directions and development of CaCO3 nanoparticles as nanocarriers in cancer treatment are discussed.

Mn(II) Optimized Sono/Chemodynamic Effect of Porphyrin-Metal-Organic Framework Nanosheets for MRI-Guided Colon Cancer Therapy and Metastasis Suppression

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) offers a remarkable non-invasive ultrasound (US) treatment by activating sonosensitizer and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) to inhibit tumor growth. The development of multifunctional, biocompatible, and highly effective sonosensitizers remains a current priority for SDT. Herein, the first report that Mn(II) ions chelated Gd-TCPP (GMT) nanosheets (NSs) are synthesized via a simple reflux method and encapsulated with pluronic F-127 to form novel sonosensitizers (GMTF). The GMTF NSs produce a high yield of ROS under US irradiation due to the decreased highest occupied molecular orbital-lowest unoccupied molecular orbital gap energy (2.7-1.28 eV). Moreover, Mn(II) ions endow GMTF with a fascinating Fenton-like activity to produce hydroxyl radicals in support of chemodynamic therapy (CDT). It is also effectively used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with high relaxation rate (r 1: 4.401 mM-1 s-1) to track the accumulation of NSs in tumors. In vivo results indicate that the SDT and CDT in combination with programmed cell death protein 1 antibody (anti-PD-1) show effective metastasis prevention effects, and 70% of the mice in the GMTF + US + anti-PD-1 group survived for 60 days. In conclusion, this study develops a sonosensitizer with promising potential for utilizing both MRI-guided SDT and CDT strategies.

Targeted pH- and redox-responsive AuS/micelles with low CMC for highly efficient sonodynamic therapy of metastatic breast cancer

The efficacy of injectable micellar carriers is hindered due to the disassembly of micelles into free surfactants in the body, resulting in their dilution below the critical micelle concentration (CMC). Copolymer micelles were developed to address this issue, containing a superhydrophilic zwitterionic block and a superhydrophobic block with a disulfide bond, which exhibited a CMC lower than conventional micellar carriers. Cleavable copolymers composed of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) zwitterion and polycaprolactone CHLZW as the shell, with gold nanoparticles as their core, were studied to deliver doxorubicin to tumor cells while reducing the side effect of the free cytotoxic agent. The research focused on the impact of gold nanoparticles present in targeted TMT-micelles core on stability and in vivo bioavailability and sonotoxicity of the nanoparticles, as well as their synergistic effect on targeted chemotherapy. The nanomicelles prepared in this study demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and responsiveness to stimuli. PCL-SS-MPC nanomicelles displayed drug release in response to GSH and pH, resulting in high DOX release at GSH 10 mM and pH 5. Our findings, supported by MTT, flow cytometry, and confocal laser scanning microscopy, demonstrated that AuS-PM-TMTM-DOX micelles effectively induced apoptosis and enhanced cellular uptake in MCF7 and MDA-MB231 cell lines. The cytotoxic effects of AuS-PM-DOX/US on cancer cells were approximately 38 % higher compared to AuS-PM-DOX samples at a concentration of IC50 0.68 nM. This increase in cellular toxicity was primarily attributed to the promotion of apoptosis. The introduction of disulfide linkages in AuSNPs resulted in increased ROS production when exposed to ultrasound stimulation, due to a reduction in GSH levels. Compared to other commercially available nanosensitizers such as titanium dioxide, exposure of AuS-PM to ultrasound radiation (1.0 W/cm, 2 min) significantly enhanced cavitation effects and resulted in 3 to 5 times higher ROS production. Furthermore, laboratory experiments using human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231, MCF7) demonstrated that the toxicity of AuS-PM in response to ultrasound waves is dose-dependent. The findings of this study suggest that this formulated nanocarrier holds great potential as a viable treatment option for breast cancer. It can induce apoptosis in cancer cells, reduce tumor size, and display notable therapeutic efficacy.

Nanodrugs mediate TAMs-related arginine metabolism interference to boost photodynamic immunotherapy

As a potential treatment strategy for low immunogenic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), photodynamic therapy (PDT) induced antitumor immunotherapy is greatly limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (ITM), especially the M2 phenotype tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). The balance of arginine metabolism plays an important role in TAMs polarization. Herein, a multifunctional nanoplatform (defined as HN-HFPA) was employed to burst the anti-tumor immunity of TNBC post PDT by reeducating TAMs through interfering the TAMs-associated arginine metabolism. The L-arginine (L-Arg) was loaded in the hollow cavity of HN-HFPA, which could not only generate nitric oxide (NO) for tumor therapy, but also serve as a substrate of arginine metabolism pathway. As an inhibitor of arginases-1 (Arg-1) of M2 TAMs, L-norvaline (L-Nor) was modified to the hyaluronic acid (HA), and coated in the surface of HFPA. After degradation of HA by hyaluronidase in tumor tissue and GSH-mediated disintegration, HN-HFPA depleted intracellular GSH, produced remarkable reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light irradiation and released L-Arg to generate NO, which induced tumor immunogenic cell death (ICD). Real-time ultrasound imaging of tumor was realized taking advantage of the gas feature of NO. The L-Nor suppressed the Arg-1 overexpressed in M2, which skewed the balance of arginine metabolism and reversed the ITM with increased ratios of M1 and CD8+ T cells, finally resulted in amplified antitumor immune response and apparent tumor metastasis inhibition. This study remodeled ITM to strengthen immune response post PDT, which provided a promising treatment strategy for TNBC.