p53 Promotes Ferroptosis in Macrophages Treated with Fe3O4 Nanoparticles

NIR-triggered arsenic-loaded layered double hydroxide-based films for localized thermal synergistic chemotherapy

Portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) formed by cancer cell invasion is a major cause of high mortality in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the formation of thrombus will be accelerated by bacterial colonization on the surface of the implant after surgery. In this work, Polypyrrole-coated arsenic-loaded layered double hydroxide films were in situ constructed on the nickel-titanium alloy for the efficient killing of tumour cells by thermo-therapeutic synergistic chemotherapy. The good near-infrared photothermal conversion ability of polypyrrole enables the sample surface temperature to be raised to about 51 °C at a low photothermal power (0.5 w/cm2), while the elevated temperature could further accelerate the release of drug arsenic. In addition, when NIR light is not applied, the polypyrrole coating also cleverly acts as a "barrier layer" to reduce the natural release of arsenic in normal tissues to avoid toxicity issues. In vivo and in vitro experiments have demonstrated that the platform exhibits excellent antitumor and antibacterial abilities. In contrast to the systemic toxicity issues associated with systemic circulation of nanotherapeutic drugs, this in situ functional film is expected to be used in localised interventions for precise drug delivery, and is also more suitable for surgical treatment scenarios in PVTT surgeries.

Current nanocomposite advances for biomedical and environmental application diversity

Nanocomposite materials are emerging as key players in addressing critical challenges in healthcare, energy storage, and environmental remediation. These innovative systems hold great promise in engineering effective solutions for complex problems. Nanocomposites have demonstrated various advantages such as simplicity, versatility, lightweight, and potential cost-effectiveness. By reinforcing synthetic and natural polymers with nanomaterials, a range of nanocomposites have exhibited unique physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. Current research on nanocomposites has demonstrated promising clinical and translational applications. Over the past decade, the production of nanocomposites has emerged as a critical nano-structuring methodology due to their adaptability and controllable surface structure. This comprehensive review article systematically addresses two principal domains. A comprehensive survey of metallic and nonmetallic nanomaterials (nanofillers), elucidating their efficacy as reinforcing agents in polymeric matrices. Emphasis is placed on the methodical design and engineering principles governing the development of functional nanocomposites. Additionally, the review provides an exhaustive examination of recent noteworthy advancements in industrial, environmental, biomedical, and clinical applications within the realms of nanocomposite materials. Finally, the review concludes by highlighting the ongoing challenges facing nanocomposites in a wide range of applications.

Enhanced osteogenic differentiation in 3D hydrogel scaffold via macrophage mitochondrial transfer

To assess the efficacy of a novel 3D biomimetic hydrogel scaffold with immunomodulatory properties in promoting fracture healing. Immunomodulatory scaffolds were used in cell experiments, osteotomy mice treatment, and single-cell transcriptomic sequencing. In vitro, fluorescence tracing examined macrophage mitochondrial transfer and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Scaffold efficacy was assessed through alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining, and in vivo experiments. The scaffold demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and antioxidant-immune regulation. Single-cell sequencing revealed a shift in macrophage distribution towards the M2 phenotype. In vitro experiments showed that macrophage mitochondria promoted BMSCs' osteogenic differentiation. In vivo experiments confirmed accelerated fracture healing. The GAD/Ag-pIO scaffold enhances osteogenic differentiation and fracture healing through immunomodulation and promotion of macrophage mitochondrial transfer.

Reactive oxygen species produced by photodynamic therapy enhance docosahexaenoic acid lipid peroxidation and induce the death of breast cancer cells

Breast cancer remains a serious threat to women's physical and emotional health. The combination therapies can overcome the deficiency of single therapy, enhance the therapeutic effects and reduce the side effects at the same time. In this study, we synthesize a novel nanomedicine that enhanced the therapeutic effects of breast cancer treatment by combining photodynamic therapy and chemotherapy. The doxorubicin (DOX) and photosensitizer methyl pyropheophorbide-a (MPPa) are loaded into the nano-drug delivery system as DPSPFA/MPPa/DOX. In response to near-infrared (NIR) laser, the drugs were quickly released to the cancer cells. The MPPa produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) under the action of photodynamics. Unsaturated fatty acids with ROS promotes lipid peroxidation and the combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy. The data shows that the DPSPFA/MPPa/DOX has a spherical shape, good dispersibility and stability, and the particle size is roughly 200 nm. The drug loading capability of DOX is about 13 %. Both of MCF7 cell model in vitro and breast cancer model in vivo, DPSPFA/MPPa/DOX showed an excellent anti-tumor effect of 86.9 % and without any obvious side effects. These findings might offer potential for a new approach for breast cancer treatment.

Targeting and activation of macrophages in leishmaniasis. A focus on iron oxide nanoparticles

Macrophages play a pivotal role as host cells for Leishmania parasites, displaying a notable functional adaptability ranging from the proinflammatory, leishmanicidal M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory, parasite-permissive M2 phenotype. While macrophages can potentially eradicate amastigotes through appropriate activation, Leishmania employs diverse strategies to thwart this activation and redirect macrophages toward an M2 phenotype, facilitating its survival and replication. Additionally, a competition for iron between the two entities exits, as iron is vital for both and is also implicated in macrophage defensive oxidative mechanisms and modulation of their phenotype. This review explores the intricate interplay between macrophages, Leishmania, and iron. We focus the attention on the potential of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) as a sort of immunotherapy to treat some leishmaniasis forms by reprogramming Leishmania-permissive M2 macrophages into antimicrobial M1 macrophages. Through the specific targeting of iron in macrophages, the use of IONPs emerges as a promising strategy to finely tune the parasite-host interaction, endowing macrophages with an augmented antimicrobial arsenal capable of efficiently eliminating these intrusive microbes.

A Superparamagnetic Composite Hydrogel Scaffold as In Vivo Dynamic Monitorable Theranostic Platform for Osteoarthritis Regeneration

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent disease, characterized by subchondral fractures in its initial stages, which has no precise and specific treatment now. Here, a novel multifunctional scaffold is synthesized by photopolymerizing glycidyl methacrylate-modified hyaluronic acid (GMHA) as the matrix in the presence of hollow porous magnetic microspheres based on hydroxyapatite. In vivo subchondral bone repairing results demonstrate that the scaffold's meticulous design has most suitable properties for subchondral bone repair. The porous structure of inorganic particles within the scaffold facilitates efficient transport of loaded exogenous vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The Fe3O4 nanoparticles assembled in microspheres promote the osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and accelerate the new bone generation. These features enable the scaffold to exhibit favorable subchondral bone repair properties and attain high cartilage repair scores. The therapy results prove that the subchondral bone support considerably influences the upper cartilage repair process. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging monitoring demonstrates that Fe3O4 nanoparticles, which are gradually replaced by new bone during osteochondral defect repair, allow a noninvasive and radiation-free assessment to track the newborn bone during the OA repair process. The composite hydrogel scaffold (CHS) provides a versatile platform for biomedical applications in OA treatment.

Photothermal therapy of xenografted tumor by carbon nanoparticles-Fe(II) complex

Due to the unique structure, carbon nanomaterials could convert near-infrared (NIR) light into heat efficiently in tumor ablation using photothermal therapy (PTT). However, none of them has been applied in clinical treatment, because they have not been approved for clinical evaluations and the precise temperature control facility is scarce. In this study, we designed a temperature-responsive controller for PTT and used carbon nanoparticles-Fe(II) complex (CNSI-Fe) as photothermal conversion agent (PTA) for PTT of tumor in vitro and in vivo. CNSI-Fe was an innovative drug under the evaluations in clinical trials. CNSI-Fe showed excellent photothermal conversion ability in water to increase the water temperature by 40 °C within 5 min under irradiation of 808 nm laser at 0.5 W/cm2. The temperature was precisely controlled at 52 °C for both in vitro and in vivo tumor inhibition. CNSI-Fe with NIR irradiation showed higher tumor cell inhibition than CNSI. In tumor bearing mice, CNSI-Fe with NIR irradiation achieved an inhibition rate of 84.7 % and 71.4 % of them were completely cured. Mechanistically, CNSI-Fe under NIR irradiation induced the radical generation, oxidative damage and ferroptosis to kill tumor. In addition, CNSI-Fe showed good biosafety during PTT according to hematological, serum biological and histopathological examinations. These results indicated that the combination of chemotherapy and PTT provided higher antitumor efficiency using CNSI-Fe as PTA.

NAT10 inhibition promotes ac4C-dependent ferroptosis to counteract sorafenib resistance in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Sorafenib, an anticancer drug, has been shown to induce ferroptosis in cancer cells. However, resistance to sorafenib greatly limits its therapeutic efficacy, and the exact mechanism of resistance is not fully understood. This study investigated the role of N-Acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) in influencing the anticancer activity of sorafenib in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and its molecular mechanism. NAT10 expression was significantly upregulated in NPC. Mechanistically, NAT10 promotes proteins of solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) expression through ac4C acetylation, inhibiting sorafenib-induced ferroptosis in NPC cells. The combined application of sorafenib and the NAT10 inhibitor remodelin significantly inhibits SLC7A11 expression and promotes ferroptosis in NPC cells. In vivo knockout of NAT10 inhibited the growth of sorafenib-resistant NPC. Our findings suggest that NAT10 inhibition might be a promising therapeutic approach to enhance the anticancer activity of sorafenib.

Integrin αvβ3-targeted self-assembled polypeptide nanomicelles for efficacious sonodynamic therapy against breast cancer

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is an advanced non-invasive cancer treatment strategy with moderate tissue penetration, less invasiveness and a reliable curative effect. However, due to the low stability, potential bio-toxicity and lack of tumor targeting capability of most sonosensitizers, the vast clinical application of SDT has been challenging and limited. Therefore, it is desirable to develop a novel approach to implement sonosensitizers to SDT for cancer treatments. In this study, an amphiphilic polypeptide was designed to effectively encapsulate rose bengal (RB) as a model sonosensitizer to form peptido-nanomicelles (REPNs). The as-fabricated REPNs demonstrated satisfactory tumor targeting and fluorescence performances, which made them superb imaging tracers in vivo. In the meantime, they generated considerable amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to promote tumor cell apoptosis under ultrasound irradiation and showed excellent anti-tumor performance without obvious side effects. These engineered nanomicelles in combination with medical ultrasound may be used to achieve integrin αvβ3-targeted sonodynamic therapy against breast cancer, and it is also a promising non-invasive cancer treatment strategy for clinical translations.

Iron (II)-based metal-organic framework nanozyme for boosting tumor ferroptosis through inhibiting DNA damage repair and system Xc. J Nanobiotechnology 2024;22:228. [PMID: 38715049 PMCID: PMC11077818 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02508-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Development of ferroptosis-inducible nanoplatforms with high efficiency and specificity is highly needed and challenging in tumor ferrotherapy. Here, we demonstrate highly effective tumor ferrotherapy using iron (II)-based metal-organic framework (FessMOF) nanoparticles, assembled from disulfide bonds and ferrous ions. The as-prepared FessMOF nanoparticles exhibit peroxidase-like activity and pH/glutathione-dependent degradability, which enables tumor-responsive catalytic therapy and glutathione depletion by the thiol/disulfide exchange to suppress glutathione peroxidase 4, respectively. Upon PEGylation and Actinomycin D (ActD) loading, the resulting FessMOF/ActD-PEG nanoplatform induces marked DNA damage and lipid peroxidation. Concurrently, we found that ActD can inhibit Xc- system and elicit ferritinophagy, which further boosts the ferrotherapeutic efficacy of the FessMOF/ActD-PEG. In vivo experiments demonstrate that our fabricated nanoplatform presents excellent biocompatibility and a high tumor inhibition rate of 91.89%.

Mastoparan M promotes functional recovery in stroke mice by activating autophagy and inhibiting ferroptosis

Neuronal ferroptosis and autophagy are crucial in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). Mastoparan M (Mast-M), extracted from the crude venom of Vespa magnifica (Smith), comprises 14 amino acid residues. Previous studies suggested that Mast-M reduces neuronal damage following global CIRI, but its protective mechanisms remain unclear. The present study examined the effect of Mast-M on middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) induced neurological deficits using Grip, Rotarod, Longa test, and TTC staining, followed by treating the mice for three days with Mast-M (20, 40, and 80 μg/kg, subcutaneously). The results demonstrate that Mast-M promotes functional recovery in mice post-ischemic stroke, evidenced by improved neurological impairment, reduced infarct volume and neuronal damage. Meanwhile, the level of iron (Fe2+) and malonyldialdehyde was decreased in the ischemic hemisphere of MCAO/R mice at 24 hours or 48 hours by Mast-M (80 μg/kg) treatment, while the expression of NRF2, x-CT, GPX4, and LC3B protein was increased. Furthermore, these findings were validated in three models-oxygen-glucose deprivation/ reoxygenation, H2O2-induced peroxidation, and erastin-induced ferroptosis-in hippocampal neuron HT22 cells or primary neurons. These data suggested that Mast-M activates autophagy as well as inhibits ferroptosis. Finally, autophagy inhibitors were introduced to determine the relationship between the autophagy and ferroptosis, indicating that Mast-M alleviates ferroptosis by activating autophagy. Taken together, this study described that Mast-M alleviates cerebral infarction, neurologic impairment, and neuronal damage by activating autophagy and inhibiting ferroptosis, presenting a potential therapeutic approach for CIRI.

Melatonin alleviates di-butyl phthalate (DBP)-induced ferroptosis of mouse leydig cells via inhibiting Sp2/VDAC2 signals

As one of the endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), dibutyl phthalate (DBP) has been extensively used in industry. DBP has been shown to cause damage to Leydig cells, yet its underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we show that DBP induces ferroptosis of mouse Leydig cells via upregulating the expression of Sp2, a transcription factor. Also, Sp2 is identified to promote the transcription of Vdac2 gene by binding to its promoter and subsequently involved in DBP-induced ferroptosis of Leydig cells. In addition, DBP is proved to induce ferroptosis via inducing oxidative stress, while inhibition of oxidative stress by melatonin alleviates DBP-induced ferroptosis and upregulation of Sp2 and VDAC2. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that melatonin can alleviate DBP-induced ferroptosis of mouse Leydig cells via inhibiting oxidative stress-triggered Sp2/VDAC2 signals.

The roles of ferroptosis in cancer: Tumor suppression, tumor microenvironment, and therapeutic interventions

In cancer treatment, the recurrent challenge of inducing apoptosis through conventional therapeutic modalities, often thwarted by therapy resistance, emphasizes the critical need to explore alternative cell death pathways. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death triggered by the lethal accumulation of lipid peroxides on cellular membranes, has emerged as one such promising frontier in oncology. Induction of ferroptosis not only suppresses tumor growth but also holds potential for augmenting immunotherapy responses and surmounting resistance to existing cancer therapies. This review navigates the role of ferroptosis in tumor suppression. Furthermore, we delve into the complex role of ferroptosis within the tumor microenvironment and its interplay with antitumor immunity, offering insights into the prospect of targeting ferroptosis as a strategic approach in cancer therapy.

Radiomodulating Properties of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle (SPION) Agent Ferumoxytol on Human Monocytes: Implications for MRI-Guided Liver Radiotherapy

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) have attracted great attention not only for therapeutic applications but also as an alternative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent that helps visualize liver tumors during MRI-guided stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). SPION can provide functional imaging of liver parenchyma based upon its uptake by the hepatic resident macrophages or Kupffer cells with a relative enhancement of malignant tumors that lack Kupffer cells. However, the radiomodulating properties of SPION on liver macrophages are not known. Utilizing human monocytic THP-1 undifferentiated and differentiated cells, we characterized the effect of ferumoxytol (Feraheme®), a carbohydrate-coated ultrasmall SPION agent at clinically relevant concentration and therapeutically relevant doses of gamma radiation on cultured cells in vitro. We showed that ferumoxytol affected both monocytes and macrophages, increased the resistance of monocytes to radiation-induced cell death and inhibition of cell activity, and supported the anti-inflammatory phenotype of human macrophages under radiation. Its effect on human cells depended on the duration of SPION uptake and was radiation dose-dependent. The results of this pilot study support a strong mechanism-based optimization of SPION-enhanced MRI-guided liver SBRT for primary and metastatic liver tumors, especially in patients with liver cirrhosis awaiting a liver transplant.

Multifunctional Metal-Phenolic Composites Promote Efficient Periodontitis Treatment via Antibacterial and Osteogenic Properties

Periodontitis, a complex inflammatory disease initiated by bacterial infections, presents a significant challenge in public health. The increased levels of reactive oxygen species and the subsequent exaggerated immune response associated with periodontitis often lead to alveolar bone resorption and tooth loss. Herein, we develop multifunctional metal-phenolic composites (i.e., Au@MPN-BMP2) to address the complex nature of periodontitis, where gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are coated by metal-phenolic networks (MPNs) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2). In this design, MPNs exhibit remarkable antibacterial and antioxidant properties, and AuNPs and BMP2 promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells under inflammatory conditions. In a rat model of periodontitis, treatment with Au@MPN-BMP2 leads to notable therapeutic outcomes, including mitigated oxidative stress, reduced progression of inflammation, and the significant prevention of inflammatory bone loss. These results highlight the multifunctionality of Au@MPN-BMP2 nanoparticles as a promising therapeutic approach for periodontitis, addressing both microbial causative factors and an overactivated immune response. We envision that the rational design of metal-phenolic composites will provide versatile nanoplatforms for tissue regeneration and potential clinical applications.

Soluble Nanographene C222: Synthesis and Applications for Synergistic Photodynamic/Photothermal Therapy

Nanographene C222, which consists of a planar graphenic plane containing 222 carbon atoms, holds the record as the largest planar nanographene synthesized to date. However, its complete insolubility makes the processing of C222 difficult. Here we addressed this issue by introducing peripheral substituents perpendicular to the graphene plane, effectively disrupting the interlayer stacking and endowing C222 with good solubility. We also found that the electron-withdrawing substituents played a crucial role in the cyclodehydrogenation process, converting the dendritic polyphenylene precursor to C222. After disrupting the interlayer stacking, the introduction of only a few peripheral carboxylic groups allowed C222 to dissolve in phosphate buffer saline, reaching a concentration of up to 0.5 mg/mL. Taking advantage of the good photosensitizing and photothermal properties of the inner C222 core, the resulting water-soluble C222 emerged as a single-component agent for both photothermal and photodynamic tumor therapy, exhibiting an impressive tumor inhibition rate of 96%.

Surface-Charge-Driven Ferroptosis and Mitochondrial Dysfunction Is Involved in Toxicity Diversity in the Marine Bivalve Exposed to Nanoplastics

Nanoplastics (NPs) pervade daily life, posing serious threats to marine ecosystems. Despite the crucial role that surface charge plays in NP effects, there is a substantial gap in our understanding of how surface charge influences NP toxicity. Herein, by exposing Ruditapes philippinarum (R. philippinarum) to both positively charged NPs (p-NPs) and negatively charged NPs (n-NPs) at environmentally relevant particle number levels for a duration of 35 days, we unequivocally demonstrate that both types of NPs had discernible impacts on the clams depending on their surface charge. Through transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, we unveiled the primary mechanisms behind p-NP toxicity, which stem from induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ferroptosis. In contrast, n-NPs predominantly stimulated innate immune responses, influencing salivary secretion and modulating the complement and coagulation cascades. Furthermore, in vitro tests on clam immune cells confirmed that internalized p-NPs triggered alterations in mitochondrial morphology, a decrease in membrane potential, and the initiation of ferroptosis. Conversely, n-NPs, to a certain extent, moderated the expression of genes related to immune responses, thus mitigating their adverse effects. Taken together, these findings indicate that the differential surface-charge-driven ferroptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction in clams play a critical role in the toxicity profile of NPs, providing an insightful reference for assessing the ecological toxicity associated with NPs.

Nanomedicine targeting ferroptosis to overcome anticancer therapeutic resistance

A potential reason for the failure of tumor therapies is treatment resistance. Resistance to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy continues to be a major obstacle in clinic, resulting in tumor recurrence and metastasis. The major mechanisms of therapy resistance are inhibitions of cell deaths, like apoptosis and necrosis, through drug inactivation and excretion, repair of DNA damage, tumor heterogeneity, or changes in tumor microenvironment, etc. Recent studies have shown that ferroptosis play a major role in therapies resistance by inducing phospholipid peroxidation and iron-dependent cell death. Some ferroptosis inducers in combination with clinical treatment techniques have been used to enhance the effect in tumor therapy. Notably, versatile ferroptosis nanoinducers exhibit an extensive range of functions in reversing therapy resistance, including directly triggering ferroptosis and feedback regulation. Herein, we provide a detailed description of the design, mechanism, and therapeutic application of ferroptosis-mediated synergistic tumor therapeutics. We also discuss the prospect and challenge of nanomedicine in tumor therapy resistance by regulating ferroptosis and combination therapy.

Iron oxide nanoparticle-based nanocomposites in biomedical application

Iron-oxide-based biomagnetic nanocomposites, recognized for their significant properties, have been utilized in MRI and cancer treatment for several decades. The expansion of clinical applications is limited by the occurrence of adverse effects. These limitations are largely attributed to suboptimal material design, resulting in agglomeration, reduced magnetic relaxivity, and inadequate functionality. To address these challenges, various synthesis methods and modification strategies have been used to tailor the size, shape, and properties of iron oxide nanoparticle (FeONP)-based nanocomposites. The resulting modified nanocomposites exhibit significant potential for application in diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic contexts, including MRI, drug delivery, and anticancer and antimicrobial activity. Yet, their biosafety profile must be rigorously evaluated. Such efforts will facilitate the broader clinical translation of FeONP-based nanocomposites in biomedical applications.

Programmed Cell Death in Liver Fibrosis

Programmed cell death (PCD) is a comprehensive term that encompasses various forms of cell death, such as apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy, which play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. PCD facilitates the elimination of aberrant cells, particularly activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are the primary producers of extracellular matrix (ECM). The removal of HSCs may impede ECM synthesis, thereby mitigating liver fibrosis. As such, PCD has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for the development of novel drugs to treat liver fibrosis. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the underlying mechanisms of PCD in the elimination of activated HSCs and other aberrant liver cells in fibrotic liver tissue, including hepatocytes, hepatic sinusoid endothelial cells (LSECs), and Kupffer cells (KCs). The induction of PCD, the interplay between different forms of PCD, and the potential harm or benefit of PCD in liver fibrosis are topics of ongoing research. Evidences suggest that PCD is a complex process with dual effects on liver fibrosis. The purpose of this review is to summarize the most recent advances in PCD and liver fibrosis research.

Nanoparticles-induced potential toxicity on human health: Applications, toxicity mechanisms, and evaluation models

Nanoparticles (NPs) have become one of the most popular objects of scientific study during the past decades. However, despite wealth of study reports, still there is a gap, particularly in health toxicology studies, underlying mechanisms, and related evaluation models to deeply understanding the NPs risk effects. In this review, we first present a comprehensive landscape of the applications of NPs on health, especially addressing the role of NPs in medical diagnosis, therapy. Then, the toxicity of NPs on health systems is introduced. We describe in detail the effects of NPs on various systems, including respiratory, nervous, endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems, and the carcinogenicity of NPs. Furthermore, we unravels the underlying mechanisms of NPs including ROS accumulation, mitochondrial damage, inflammatory reaction, apoptosis, DNA damage, cell cycle, and epigenetic regulation. In addition, the classical study models such as cell lines and mice and the emerging models such as 3D organoids used for evaluating the toxicity or scientific study are both introduced. Overall, this review presents a critical summary and evaluation of the state of understanding of NPs, giving readers more better understanding of the NPs toxicology to remedy key gaps in knowledge and techniques.

Ferroptosis of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment

Ferroptosis is a distinct form of cell death driven by the accumulation of peroxidized lipids. Characterized by alterations in redox lipid metabolism, ferroptosis has been implicated in a variety of cellular processes, including cancer. Induction of ferroptosis is considered a novel way to kill tumor cells, especially cells resistant to radiation and chemotherapy. However, in recent years, a new paradigm has emerged. In addition to promoting tumor cell death, ferroptosis causes potent immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment (TME) by affecting both innate and adaptive immune responses. In this review, we discuss the dual role of ferroptosis in the antitumor and protumorigenic functions of immune cells in cancer. We suggest strategies for targeting ferroptosis, taking into account its ambiguous role in cancer.

Tumor microenvironment responsive metal nanoparticles in cancer immunotherapy

Malignant tumors have a unique tumor microenvironment (TME), which includes mild acidity, hypoxia, overexpressed reactive oxygen species (ROS), and high glutathione (GSH) levels, among others. Recently, TME regulation approaches have attracted widespread attention in cancer immunotherapy. Nanoparticles as drug delivery systems have ability to modulate the hydrophilicity of drugs to affect drug uptake and efflux in tumor. Especially, the metal nanoparticles have been extensive applied for tumor immunotherapy due to their unique physical properties and elaborate design. However, the potential deficiencies of metal nanoparticles due to their low biodegradability, toxicity and treatment side effects restrict their clinical application. In this review, we briefly introduce the feature characteristics of the TME and the recent advances in tumor microenvironment responsive metal nanoparticles for tumor immunotherapy. In addition, nanoparticles could be combined with other treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy also is presented. Finally, the challenges and outlook for improving the antitumor immunotherapy efficiency, side effect and potential risks of metal nanoparticles has been discussed.

Impact of Lipid Metabolism on Macrophage Polarization: Implications for Inflammation and Tumor Immunity

Macrophage polarization is influenced by lipids, which also exert significant control over macrophage functions. Lipids and their metabolites are players in intricate signaling pathways that modulate macrophages' responses to pathogens, phagocytosis, ferroptosis, and inflammation. This review focuses on lipid metabolism and macrophage functions and addresses potential molecular targets for the treatment of macrophage-related diseases. While lipogenesis is crucial for lipid accumulation and phagocytosis in M1 macrophages, M2 macrophages likely rely on fatty acid β-oxidation to utilize fatty acids as their primary energy source. Cholesterol metabolism, regulated by factors such as SREBPs, PPARs, and LXRs, is associated with the cholesterol efflux capacity and the formation of foam cells (M2-like macrophages). Foam cells, which are targets for atherosclerosis, are associated with an increase in inflammatory cytokines. Lipolysis and fatty acid uptake markers, such as CD36, also contribute to the production of cytokines. Enhancing the immune system through the inhibition of lipid-metabolism-related factors can potentially serve as a targeted approach against tumor cells. Cyclooxygenase inhibitors, which block the conversion of arachidonic acid into various inflammatory mediators, influence macrophage polarization and have generated attention in cancer research.

Recent progress in the effect of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles on cells and extracellular vesicles

At present, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are widely used in the biomedical field. They have unique advantages in targeted drug delivery, imaging and disease treatment. However, there are many things to pay attention to. In this paper, we reviewed the fate of IONPs in different cells and the influence on the production, separation, delivery and treatment of extracellular vesicles. It aims to provide cutting-edge knowledge related to iron oxide nanoparticles. Only by ensuring the safety and effectiveness of IONPs can their application in biomedical research and clinic be further improved.

Progress in the Mechanism of the Effect of Fe3O4 Nanomaterials on Ferroptosis in Tumor Cells

Ferroptosis is a new form of iron-dependent programmed cell death discovered in recent years, which is caused by the accumulation of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Recent studies have shown that cellular ferroptosis is closely related to tumor progression, and the induction of ferroptosis is a new means to inhibit tumor growth. Biocompatible Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄-NPs), rich in Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺, act as a supplier of iron ions, which not only promote ROS production but also participate in iron metabolism, thus affecting cellular ferroptosis. In addition, Fe₃O₄-NPs combine with other techniques such as photodynamic therapy (PDT); heat stress and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) can further induce cellular ferroptosis effects, which then enhance the antitumor effects. In this paper, we present the research progress and the mechanism of Fe₃O₄-NPs to induce ferroptosis in tumor cells from the perspective of related genes and chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as PDT, heat stress, and SDT techniques.

NAT10, an RNA Cytidine Acetyltransferase, Regulates Ferroptosis in Cancer Cells

Recently, we reported that N-acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) regulates fatty acid metabolism through ac4C-dependent RNA modification of key genes in cancer cells. During this work, we noticed ferroptosis as one of the most negatively enriched pathways among other pathways in NAT10-depleted cancer cells. In the current work, we explore the possibility of whether NAT10 acts as an epitranscriptomic regulator of the ferroptosis pathway in cancer cells. Global ac4C levels and expression of NAT10 with other ferroptosis-related genes were assessed via dotblot and RT-qPCR, respectively. Flow cytometry and biochemical analysis were used to assess oxidative stress and ferroptosis features. The ac4C-mediated mRNA stability was conducted using RIP-PCR and mRNA stability assay. Metabolites were profiled using LC-MS/MS. Our results showed significant downregulation in expression of essential genes related to ferroptosis, namely SLC7A11, GCLC, MAP1LC3A, and SLC39A8 in NAT10-depleted cancer cells. Further, we noticed a reduction in cystine uptake and reduced GSH levels, along with elevated ROS, and lipid peroxidation levels in NAT10-depleted cells. Consistently, overproduction of oxPLs, as well as increased mitochondrial depolarization and decreased activities of antioxidant enzymes, support the notion of ferroptosis induction in NAT10-depleted cancer cells. Mechanistically, a reduced ac4C level shortens the half-life of GCLC and SLC7A11 mRNA, resulting in low levels of intracellular cystine and reduced GSH, failing to detoxify ROS, and leading to increased cellular oxPLs, which facilitate ferroptosis induction. Collectively, our findings suggest that NAT10 restrains ferroptosis by stabilizing the SLC7A11 mRNA transcripts in order to avoid oxidative stress that induces oxidation of phospholipids to initiate ferroptosis.

LPS-aggravated Ferroptosis via Disrupting Circadian Rhythm by Bmal1/AKT/p53 in Sepsis-Induced Myocardial Injury

Circadian disruption is involved in the progress of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SICM), one of the leading causes of death in sepsis. The molecular mechanism remains ambiguous. In this study, LPS was used to build SICM model in H9c2 cell. The results suggested that LPS induced cytotoxicity via increasing ferroptosis over the time of course. After screening the expressions of six circadian genes, the circadian swing of Bmal1 was dramatically restrained by LPS in H9c2 cell of SIMC vitro model. PcDNA and siRNA were used to upregulate and downregulate Bmal1 and confirmed that Bmal1 inhibited LPS-triggered ferroptosis in H9c2 cells. Then, the results suggested that AKT/p53 pathway was restrained by LPS in H9c2 cell. Rescue test indicated that Bmal1 inhibited LPS-triggered ferroptosis via AKT/p53 pathway in H9c2 cells. In summary, our findings demonstrated that LPS induced cytotoxicity via increasing ferroptosis over the time of course in H9c2 cells and Bmal1 inhibited this toxicity of LPS via AKT/p53 pathway. Although further studies are needed, our findings may contribute to a new insight to mechanism of SICM.

Versatile Switchable Targeted Polysiloxanes for High-Resolution Visualization of Mitochondrial and Lysosomal Interactions during Ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent process that regulates cell death and is essential for maintaining normal cell and tissue survival. The explosion of reactive oxygen species characterizes ferroptosis in a significant way. Peroxynitrite (ONOO^-) is one of the endogenous reactive oxygen species. Abnormal ONOO^- concentrations cause damage to subcellular organelles and further interfere with organelle interactions. However, the proper conduct of organelle interactions is critical for cellular signaling and the maintenance of cellular homeostasis. Therefore, investigating the effect of ONOO^- on organelle interactions during ferroptosis is a highly attractive topic. To date, it has been challenging to visualize the full range of ONOO^- fluctuations in mitochondria and lysosomes during ferroptosis. In this paper, we constructed a switchable targeting polysiloxane platform. During the selective modification of NH₂ groups located in the side chain, the polysiloxane platform successfully constructed fluorescent probes targeting lysosomes and mitochondria (Si-Lyso-ONOO, Si-Mito-ONOO), respectively. Real-time detection of ONOO^- in lysosomes and mitochondria during ferroptosis was successfully achieved. Remarkably, the occurrence of autophagy during late ferroptosis and the interaction between mitochondria and lysosomes was observed via the differentiated responsive strategy. We expect that this switchable targeting polysiloxane functional platform will broaden the application of polymeric materials in bioimaging and provide a powerful tool for further deeper understanding of the ferroptosis process.

Review of ferroptosis in colorectal cancer: Friends or foes?

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered type of cell-regulated death. It is characterized by the accumulation of iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and can be distinguished from other forms of cell-regulated death by different morphology, biochemistry, and genetics. Recently, studies have shown that ferroptosis is associated with a variety of diseases, including liver, kidney and neurological diseases, as well as cancer. Ferroptosis has been shown to be associated with colorectal epithelial disorders, which can lead to cancerous changes in the gut. However, the potential role of ferroptosis in the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer (CRC) is still controversial. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis in CRC, this article systematically reviews ferroptosis, and its cellular functions in CRC, for furthering the understanding of the pathogenesis of CRC to aid clinical treatment.

Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPION): From Fundamentals to State-of-the-Art Innovative Applications for Cancer Therapy

Despite significant advances in cancer therapy over the years, its complex pathological process still represents a major health challenge when seeking effective treatment and improved healthcare. With the advent of nanotechnologies, nanomedicine-based cancer therapy has been widely explored as a promising technology able to handle the requirements of the clinical sector. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) have been at the forefront of nanotechnology development since the mid-1990s, thanks to their former role as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. Though their use as MRI probes has been discontinued due to an unfavorable cost/benefit ratio, several innovative applications as therapeutic tools have prompted a renewal of interest. The unique characteristics of SPION, i.e., their magnetic properties enabling specific response when submitted to high frequency (magnetic hyperthermia) or low frequency (magneto-mechanical therapy) alternating magnetic field, and their ability to generate reactive oxygen species (either intrinsically or when activated using various stimuli), make them particularly adapted for cancer therapy. This review provides a comprehensive description of the fundamental aspects of SPION formulation and highlights various recent approaches regarding in vivo applications in the field of cancer therapy.