Molecular Mechanism Underlying the Action of a Celastrol-Loaded Layered Double Hydroxide-Coated Magnesium Alloy in

Shi Cheng1,2, Hongwei Shao1, Dong Yin1

  • 1Medical Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510080, China.

Insights

This study introduces a novel celastrol-loaded magnesium alloy implant coated with layered double hydroxide (LDH) to combat osteosarcoma (OS). The implant shows promise in inhibiting tumor cells and promoting bone regeneration, offering a new treatment strategy for OS.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Orthopedic Oncology
  • Nanotechnology

Background:

  • Osteosarcoma (OS) is a prevalent bone malignancy requiring effective clinical treatments.
  • Current treatments face challenges in preventing tumor recurrence and enhancing bone regeneration post-surgery.
  • Magnesium (Mg) alloys are promising for orthopedic implants due to their biodegradability, but require surface modification for enhanced functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a layered double hydroxide (LDH)-coated magnesium (Mg) alloy loaded with celastrol for enhanced osteosarcoma treatment.
  • To evaluate the implant's antitumor properties, biocompatibility, and osteogenic potential.
  • To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of celastrol-induced apoptosis and autophagy in OS cells.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of LDH-coated Mg alloy loaded with celastrol.
  • In vitro assessment of cytotoxicity, anti-proliferative, and anti-migratory effects on OS cells and normal cells.
  • Mechanistic studies involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway analysis.
  • In vivo evaluation in a subcutaneous tumor model and in vitro tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining for osteoclast activity.
  • Assessment of bone regeneration potential around the implant.

Main Results:

  • The celastrol-loaded Mg alloy demonstrated enhanced corrosion resistance and sustained celastrol release.
  • In vitro studies showed significant inhibition of OS cell proliferation and migration with minimal impact on normal cells.
  • Celastrol induced OS cell apoptosis via ROS generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and modulation of autophagy through the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway.
  • The implant exhibited antitumor efficacy in vivo and reduced osteoclast viability, suggesting enhanced bone regeneration.
  • In vitro TRAP staining and gene expression indicated reduced osteoclast activity.

Conclusions:

  • The celastrol-loaded LDH-coated Mg alloy is a promising biomaterial for osteosarcoma treatment.
  • The implant effectively inhibits OS progression and promotes bone regeneration.
  • This novel implant offers a potential therapeutic strategy to overcome limitations in current OS clinical management.