Bioorthogonal nanozymes for breast cancer imaging and therapy

Bioorthogonal catalysis via transition metal catalysts (TMCs) enables the generation of therapeutics locally through chemical reactions not accessible by biological systems. This localization can enhance the efficacy of anticancer treatment while minimizing off-target effects. The encapsulation of TMCs into nanomaterials gen-erates nanozymes to activate imaging and therapeutic agents. Here, we report the use of cationic bioorthogonal nanozymes to create localized drug factories for cancer therapy in vivo. These nanozymes remained present at the tumor site at least seven days after a single injection due to the interactions between cationic surface ligands and negatively charged cell membranes and tissue components. The prodrug was then administered systemically, and the nanozymes continuously converted the non-toxic molecules into active drugs locally. This strategy substantially reduced the tumor growth in an aggressive breast cancer model, with significantly reduced liver damage compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Automated summary

Bioorthogonal catalysis via transition metal catalysts (TMCs) allows the production of therapeutics locally through chemical reactions that are inaccessible to biological systems. This localized approach can improve the effectiveness of anticancer treatment and minimize off-target effects. By encapsulating TMCs into nanomaterials, nanozymes are created to activate imaging and therapeutic agents. In this study, cationic bioorthogonal nanozymes were used to establish localized drug factories for cancer therapy in vivo. These nanozymes remained at the tumor site for at least seven days after a single injection due to interactions with cell membranes and tissue components. The non-toxic prodrugs were then systemically administered and continuously converted into active drugs by the nanozymes. This strategy significantly reduced tumor growth in an aggressive breast cancer model, with reduced liver damage compared to traditional chemotherapy.