Synergistic ROS Generation via Core-Shell Nanostructures with Increased Lattice Microstrain Combined with Single-Atom...

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Catalysis
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation is crucial for cancer therapy.
• Developing efficient catalysts for ROS production remains a challenge.
• Core-shell nanostructures offer tunable properties for catalytic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the synergistic effect of FePt@Cu core-shell nanostructures and Au single-atom catalysis on hydroxyl radical (•OH) generation.
• To evaluate the efficacy of these nanostructures in catalytic tumor therapy.
• To explore the underlying mechanisms of enhanced •OH production.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of FePt@Cu core-shell nanostructures.
• Incorporation of Au single atoms onto the nanostructures.
• Characterization of lattice microstrain and catalytic activity.
• Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate reaction mechanisms.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation of tumor suppression efficacy and biodegradability.

Main Results:

• FePt@Cu core-shell nanostructures with increased lattice microstrain significantly enhanced •OH generation.
• Synergistic effects observed in FePt@Cu, further boosted by Au single atoms (FePt@Cu/Au).
• Enhanced O2 → H2O2 → •OH pathway and Fenton-like reactions were confirmed.
• DFT calculations revealed reduced O2 adsorption energy and energy barriers due to lattice mismatch and Au catalysis.
• FePt@Cu/Au demonstrated remarkable tumor suppression and rapid biodegradability.

Conclusions:

• FePt@Cu core-shell nanostructures with Au single-atom catalysis represent a novel and effective strategy for enhancing •OH generation in cancer therapy.
• The synergistic effects and optimized catalytic pathways contribute to superior tumor suppression.
• The biodegradable nature of FePt@Cu/Au highlights its potential as a safe and efficient therapeutic agent.