Theanine-complexed Cu-THE nanozyme promotes cancer therapy via ferroptosis and apoptosis

Cancer still poses a significant challenge to public health. Numerous studies emphasize the potential of l-Theanine (THE) in tumor therapy, particularly its role in improving clinical outcomes. Similarly, copper chelators have proven effective in inhibiting tumor growth. The development of Cu-THE complexes may significantly improve therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatments, marking a promising advancement in cancer research.

Cu-THE was synthesized through the complexation of l-theanine with Cu²⁺. This complex was designed to mimic the activity of multiple enzymes, including peroxidases, glutathione peroxidases, and superoxide dismutase. In vivo experiments were conducted on murine tumor models to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Cu-THE. The administration regimen involved treating tumor-bearing mice with Cu-THE over a predetermined period. Assessments focused on tumor growth, modulation of cellular iron homeostasis, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and activation of apoptosis and ferroptosis pathways. Key biomarkers such as HO-1 and Fpn expression levels were quantified, along with the transformation of glutathione (GSH) to glutathione disulfide (GSSG) and the resultant effects on the Xc- transport system.

The administration of Cu-THE significantly curtailed tumor growth in the mice. On a mechanistic level, Cu-THE induced upregulation of HO-1, facilitating the release of Fe²⁺ from heme and concurrently suppressed Fpn expression, leading to intracellular Fe²⁺ accumulation. This accumulation significantly elevated ROS levels, leading to cell death through apoptosis and ferroptosis. Furthermore, Cu-THE facilitated the oxidation of GSH to GSSG and suppressed the Xc- system, reducing GSH synthesis and enhancing the sensitivity of tumor cells to ferroptosis. The inhibition of the NRF2-GPX4 signaling pathway by Cu-THE further intensified ferroptotic processes.

The research demonstrates that Cu-THE holds promise as a dual-action strategy, targeting both apoptosis and ferroptosis interactively, which underscores its potential for future applications in cancer therapy.