Probes and nano-delivery systems targeting NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1: a mini-review

The two-electron cytoplasmic reductase NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 is expressed in many tissues. NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 is well-known for being highly expressed in most cancers. Therefore, it could be a target for cancer therapy. Because it is a quinone reductase, many bioimaging probes based on quinone structures target NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 to diagnose tumours. Its expression is higher in tumours than in normal tissues, and using target drugs such as beta-lapachone to reduce side effects in normal tissues can help. However, the physicochemical properties of beta-lapachone limit its application. The problem can be solved by using nanosystems to deliver beta-lapachone. This mini-review summarizes quinone-based fluorescent, nearinfrared and two-photon fluorescent probes, as well as nanosystems for delivering the NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1-activating drug beta-lapachone. This review provides valuable information for the future development of probes and nano-delivery systems that target NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1.

Automated summary

NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 is an enzyme highly expressed in tumors and can be targeted for cancer therapy. Quinone-based bioimaging probes and nanosystems can be used for tumor diagnosis and treatment, improving effectiveness and reducing side effects.