Baiting bacteria with amino acidic and peptidic corona coated defect-engineered antimicrobial nanoclusters for optimized wound healing

Keeping steps ahead of the bacteria in the race for more efficacious antibacterial strategies is increasingly difficult with the advent of bacterial resistance genes. Herein, we engineered copper sulfide nanoclusters (CuSx NCs) with variable sulfur defects for enhanced dual-treatment of bacterial infections by manipulating photothermal effects and Fenton-like activity. Next, by encasing CuSx NCs with a complex mixture of amino acids and short peptides derived from Luria-Bertani bacterial culture media as a protein corona, we managed to coax E. Coli to take up these CuSx NCs. As a whole, Amino-Pep-CuSx NCs was perceived as a food source and actively consumed by bacteria, enhancing their effective uptake by at least 1.5-fold greater than full length BSA protein BSA-corona CuSx NCs. Through strategically using defect-engineering, we successfully fine-tune photothermal effect and Fenton-like capacity of CuSx NCs. Increased sulfur defects lead to reduced but sufficient heat generation under solar-light irradiation and increased production of toxic hydroxyl radicals. By fine-tuning sulfur defects during synthesis, we achieve CuSx NCs with an optimal synergistic effect, significantly enhancing their bactericidal properties. These ultra-small and biodegradable CuSx NCs can rapidly break down after treatment for clearance. Thus, Amino-Pep-CuSx NCs demonstrate effective eradication of bacteria both in vitro and in vivo because of their relatively high uptake, optimal balanced photothermal and chemodynamic outcomes. Our study offers a straightforward and efficient method to enhance bacterial uptake of next generation of antibacterial agents.

Metabolic reprogramming in cancer and senescence

The rising trend in global cancer incidence has caused widespread concern, one of the main reasons being the aging of the global population. Statistical data show that cancer incidence and mortality rates show a clear upward trend with age. Although there is a commonality between dysregulated nutrient sensing, which is one of the main features of aging, and metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells, the specific regulatory relationship is not clear. This manuscript intends to comprehensively analyze the relationship between senescence and tumor metabolic reprogramming; as well as reveal the impact of key factors leading to cellular senescence on tumorigenesis. In addition, this review summarizes the current intervention strategies targeting nutrient sensing pathways, as well as the clinical cases of treating tumors targeting the characteristics of senescence with the existing nanodelivery research strategies. Finally, it also suggests sensible dietary habits for those who wish to combat aging. In conclusion, this review attempts to sort out the link between aging and metabolism and provide new ideas for cancer treatment.