Oxygen-generating biocatalytic nanomaterials for tumor hypoxia relief in cancer radiotherapy

Radiotherapy (RT), the most commonly used treatment method in clinics, shows unique advantages such as strong penetration, high energy intensity, and low systemic side effects. However, in vivo tumor hypoxia seriously hinders the therapeutic effect of RT. Hypoxia is a common characteristic of locally advanced solid tumor microenvironments, which leads to the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. In addition, oxygen consumption during RT will further aggravate tumor hypoxia, causing a variety of adverse side effects. In recent years, various biocatalytic nanomaterials (BCNs) have been explored to regulate and reverse tumor hypoxia microenvironments during RT. In this review, the most recent efforts toward developing oxygen-generating BCNs in relieving tumor hypoxia in RT are focused upon. The classification, engineering nanocatalytical activity of oxygen-generating BCNs and combined therapy based on these BCNs are systematically introduced and discussed. The challenges and prospects of these oxygen-generating BCNs in RT applications are also summarized.

Automated summary

Radiotherapy (RT) is widely used in clinics and has advantages like strong penetration, high energy intensity, and low systemic side effects. However, tumor hypoxia during RT significantly reduces its therapeutic effect. Tumor hypoxia, a common characteristic of locally advanced solid tumors, promotes tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. In recent years, the use of biocatalytic nanomaterials (BCNs) to reverse tumor hypoxia during RT has been explored. This review focuses on oxygen-generating BCNs and their potential in relieving tumor hypoxia in RT. The classification, engineering nanocatalytical activity of oxygen-generating BCNs, and combination therapy based on these BCNs are discussed. The challenges and prospects of using oxygen-generating BCNs in RT applications are summarized.