Enhanced breast cancer treatment using phototherapy and RNS therapy with macrophage membrane-coated liposomes

Abstract

Breast cancer, the predominant malignancy afflicting women, continues to pose formidable challenges despite advancements in therapeutic interventions. This study elucidates the potential of phototherapy, comprising both photothermal and photodynamic therapy (PTT/PDT), as a novel and promising modality. To achieve this goal, we devised liposomes coated with macrophage cell membranes including macrophage-associated membrane proteins, which have demonstrated promise in biomimetic delivery systems for targeting tumors while preserving their inherent tumor-homing capabilities. This integrated biomimetic delivery system comprised IR780, NONOate, and perfluorocarbon. This strategic encapsulation aims to achieve a synergistic combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) therapy. Under near-infrared laser irradiation at 808 nm, IR780 demonstrates its ability to prolifically generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide anion (O2•−), singlet oxygen, and hydroxyl radical (·OH). Simultaneously, NONOate releases nitric oxide (NO) gas upon the same laser irradiation, thereby engaging with IR780-induced ROS to facilitate the formation of peroxynitrite anion (ONOO−), ultimately inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells. Additionally, the perfluorocarbon component of our delivery system exhibits a notable affinity for oxygen and demonstrates efficient oxygen-carrying capabilities. Our results demonstrate that IR780-NO-PFH-Lip@M significantly enhances breast cancer cell toxicity, reducing proliferation and in vivo tumor growth through simultaneous heat, ROS, and RNS production. This study contributes valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on innovative strategies for advancing cancer therapeutics.