Multifunctional Nanoparticles for Enhanced Chemodynamic/Photodynamic Therapy through a Photothermal, H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub>-Elevation, and GSH-Consumption Strategy
Yang Bai, Mingying Liu, Xiaoning Wang, Kun Liu, Xinping Liu, Xiao Duan
Abstract
Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) has witnessed significant advancements in recent years due to its specific properties. Its association with photodynamic therapy (PDT) has also garnered increased attention due to its mutually reinforcing effects. However, achieving further enhancement of the CDT/PDT efficacy remains a major challenge. In this study, we have developed an integrated nanosystem comprising a Fenton catalyst and multifunctional photosensitizers to achieve triply enhanced CDT/PDT through photothermal effects, H 2 O 2 elevation, and GSH consumption. We prepared nano-ZIF-8 vesicles as carriers to encapsulate ferrocene-(phenylboronic acid pinacol ester) conjugates (Fc-BE) and photosensitizers IR825. Subsequently, cinnamaldehyde-modified hyaluronic acid (HA-CA) was coated onto ZIF-8 through metal coordination interactions, resulting in the formation of active targeting nanoparticles (NPs@Fc-BE&IR825). Upon cellular internalization mediated by CD44 receptors, HA-CA elevated H 2 O 2 levels, while released Fc-BE consumed GSH and catalyzed H 2 O 2 to generate highly cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals (·OH). Furthermore, NIR irradiation led to increased ·OH production and the generation of singlet oxygen ( 1 O 2 ), accompanied by a greater GSH consumption. This accelerated and strengthened amplification of oxidative stress can be harnessed to develop highly effective CDT/PDT nanoagents.