Metal-Organic Framework Nanoplatform Synergizes Fenton-Driven Ferroptosis and Photodynamic Apoptosis for Enhanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy.

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is notorious for its dismal prognosis and resistance to conventional therapies. The integration of multiple cell death mechanisms emerges as a promising strategy to combat the heterogeneity of this malignancy.

PURPOSE: Herein, we engineered a multifunctional nanoplatform, TPMIL101-TCPP@Lip-HA, by encapsulating the photosensitizer TCPP and chemotherapeutic agent triptolide (TP) within a metal-organic framework (MIL101), followed by surface modification with liposomes and hyaluronic acid. This sophisticated drug delivery system capitalizes on the enhanced permeability and retention effect to achieve tumor-specific accumulation.

METHODS

Upon reaching the tumor site, TPMIL101-TCPP@Lip-HA undergoes gradual disintegration, releasing its therapeutic payload. The tumor microenvironment facilitates the reduction of Fe³⁺ to Fe²⁺, triggering ferroptosis through the Fenton reaction. Simultaneously, laser irradiation activates TCPP to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species, initiating photodynamic therapy-induced apoptosis. The concomitant accumulation of lipid peroxides synergistically amplifies the ferroptotic cascade.

RESULTS

In vitro/in vivo studies confirm potent anti-HCC efficacy with reduced TP toxicity. Mechanistic studies elucidate that TPMIL101-TCPP@Lip-HA orchestrates ferroptosis through modulation of iron storage and lipid oxidation proteins, while concurrently inducing apoptosis via the cytochrome c/Apaf-1/caspase signaling axis.

CONCLUSION

These findings collectively underscore TPMIL101-TCPP@Lip-HA as a potent therapeutic nanoplatform capable of arresting HCC progression.