Aim
To explore the potential role of CuS@mSiO2@MnO2 nanocomposites in synergetic chemoradiotherapy.
Background
Radiosensitizers that can effectively consume glutathione provide broad prospects for enhancing the efficacy and reducing the side effects of radiotherapy.
Conclusion
We propose that this glutathione-depleting nanosystem could be a radiosensitizer as well as a drug transporter.
Methods
Nanocomposites were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, UV-Vis spectrometry and dynamic light scattering and were loaded with doxorubicin (DOX). The uptake and biodistribution of nanocomposites were observed by CCK8 assay, MRI and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The radiosensitization effect of nanocomposites and nanocomposites/DOX was assessed both in vitro and in vivo.
Results
In vitro application of nanocomposites, with an average diameter of 30 nm and ζ-potential of 13.2 ± 0.4 mV, in combination with radiotherapy, depleted glutathione and induced ferroptosis and apoptosis. Nanocomposites/DOX exhibited tumor cell damage in vivo.