Harnessing nanomaterials for copper-induced cell death.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Oncology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient vital for cellular processes, with critical implications for cell survival.
• Both copper deficiency and excess can disrupt cellular functions, impacting metabolism and viability.
• Copper exhibits a dual role in cancer, influencing tumor progression and cell death pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the complex role of copper in cancer biology.
• To review copper's bidirectional effects on tumorigenesis.
• To highlight copper-based nanomaterials as potential therapeutic agents in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review on copper's role in cancer.
• Analysis of copper's involvement in various cell death mechanisms (autophagy, apoptosis, ferroptosis, etc.).
• Exploration of nanodrug delivery systems for copper-based cancer therapy.

Main Results:

• Copper concentration critically influences cancer progression and cell death.
• Excess copper can induce multiple forms of cancer cell death, including cuproptosis.
• Nanotechnology enables precise targeting and controlled release of copper-based agents.

Conclusions:

• Copper's dualistic nature presents both challenges and opportunities in cancer therapy.
• Copper-based nanomaterials show promise for targeted cancer treatment by modulating copper levels.
• Further research is needed to harness copper's therapeutic potential in oncology.