Self-cascade catalytic single-atom nanozyme for enhanced breast cancer low-dose radiotherapy

Radiotherapy (RT) efficacy can be promoted with the help of nanoenzyme that can "re-programing" the tumour's micro-environment by changing the expression level of special bio-molecules. However, problems such as low reaction efficiency, limited endogenous H2O2, and/or unsatisfactory results of a single catalysis mode in treatment limit the application in the RT field. Herein, a novel Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) decorated iron SAE (FeSAE@Au) was formulated for self-cascade catalytic RT. In this dual-nanozyme system, embedded AuNPs can sever as GOx and endow FeSAE@Au with self-H2O2 supplying ability, which can elevate the H2O2 level in tumors by catalyzing cellular glucose in situ, further improving the catalytic performance of FeSAE with peroxidase-like activity. The self-cascade catalytic reaction can significantly increase cellular hydroxyl radicals (•OH) level, further promoting RT’s effect. Furthermore, in vivo findings demonstrated that FeSAE can effectively limit tumor growth while causing low damage in important organs. According to our understanding, FeSAE@Au is the first description of a hybrid SAE-based nanomaterial employed in cascade catalytic RT. The research yields new and interesting insights for developing various SAE systems for anticancer therapy.