Multifunctional nanomaterials via cell cuproptosis and oxidative stress for treating osteosarcoma and OS-induced bone destruction

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) refers to a highly reactive class of oxidizing species that have the potential to induce cellular apoptosis and necrosis. Cuproptosis, a type of cell death, is primarily associated with the effects of copper ions. However, the specific relationship between ROS, cuproptosis, and osteosarcoma (OS) remains relatively unexplored. Additionally, there is limited research on the use of cuproptosis in conjunction with oxidative stress for treating OS and inhibiting tumor-induced bone destruction. To address these gaps, a novel treatment approach has been developed for OS and neoplastic bone destruction. This approach involves the utilization of glutathione (GSH) and pH-responsive organic-inorganic mesoporous silica nanoparticles@Cu2S@oxidized Dextran (short for MCD). The MCD material demonstrates excellent cytocompatibility, osteogenesis, tumor suppression, and the ability to inhibit osteoclast formation. The specific mechanism of action involves the mitochondria of the MCD material inhibiting key proteins in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Simultaneously, the generation of ROS promotes this inhibition and leads to alterations in cellular energy metabolism. Moreover, the MCD biomaterial exhibits promising mild-temperature photothermal therapy in the second near-infrared (NIR-II) range, effectively mitigating tumor growth and OS-induced bone destruction in vivo.