NO- and H2S- releasing nanomaterials: A crosstalk signaling pathway in cancer
Roberta Albino Dos Reis1, Ishani Sarkar2, Maiara Gonçalves Rodrigues1
1Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, 09210-580, SP, Brazil.
Abstract:
The gasotransmitters nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) play important roles not only in maintaining physiological functions, but also in pathological conditions and events. Importantly, these molecules show a complex interplay in cancer biology, demonstrating both tumor-promoting and anti-tumor activities depending on their concentration, flux, and the environmental redox state. Additionally, various cell types respond differently to NO and H2S. These gasotransmitters can be synergistically combined with traditional anticancer treatments such as radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and phototherapy. Notably, NO, and more recently H2S, have been shown to reverse multidrug resistance. Nanomaterials to deliver NO donors and, to a lesser extent, H2S donors, have emerged as a promising approach for targeted delivery of these gasotransmitters. Nanotechnology has advanced the delivery of anticancer drugs, enhancing efficiency and reducing side effects on non-cancerous cells. This review highlights recent progress in the design of NO and H2S-releasing nanomaterials for anticancer effects. It also explores the interactions between NO and H2S, which are crucial for developing combined therapies and nanomedicines with minimal side effects.
Insights
Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gasotransmitters have dual roles in cancer. Nanomaterials offer targeted delivery for synergistic anticancer therapies, potentially reversing drug resistance and minimizing side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Nanomedicine
- Oncology
Background:
- Gasotransmitters nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are critical in physiological and pathological processes.
- These molecules exhibit complex, context-dependent roles in cancer, with both tumor-promoting and anti-tumor activities.
- Cellular responses to NO and H2S vary significantly across different cell types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in NO- and H2S-releasing nanomaterials for cancer therapy.
- To explore the synergistic potential of gasotransmitters with conventional anticancer treatments.
- To highlight the role of nanomaterials in targeted delivery and overcoming multidrug resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on the design and application of NO- and H2S-releasing nanomaterials.
- Analysis of the interplay between NO and H2S in various cancer contexts.
- Examination of nanomaterial-based strategies for enhanced drug delivery and reduced toxicity.
Main Results:
- Nanomaterials provide a promising platform for the targeted delivery of NO and H2S donors.
- Gasotransmitters can synergize with radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and phototherapy.
- NO and H2S have demonstrated potential in reversing multidrug resistance in cancer cells.
Conclusions:
- NO- and H2S-releasing nanomaterials represent a significant advancement in targeted cancer therapy.
- Understanding the complex interactions between NO and H2S is crucial for developing effective combination therapies.
- Nanomedicine approaches offer enhanced therapeutic efficiency and reduced side effects in cancer treatment.
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