Ultrasound/GSH dual responsive ZIF-8-GOx@Cu-PDA@liposome-L-arginine nanoparticles for ion interference/starvation/gas synergistic tumor therapy

Glucose oxidase (GOx)-based starvation therapy has emerged as a promising strategy in tumor therapy. However, the non-specific catalytic activity and premature degradation of GOx during systemic circulation have limited its therapeutic efficacy in tumor regions. In this study, we present the synthesis of ultrasound/glutathione dual-responsive ZIF-8-GOx@copper-polydopamine@liposome-L-arginine (ZGCLL) nanoparticles, designed to concurrently achieve ion interference therapy, starvation therapy, and ultrasound-catalyzed gas therapy. The ZIF-8-GOx nanoparticles are prepared via a co-precipitation method, followed by the encapsulation of a copper-polydopamine (Cu-PDA) shell on the particle surface. Subsequently, liposomes and L-arginine are incorporated to form ZGCLL. The Cu-PDA shell exhibits responsiveness to the elevated level of glutathione in tumor microenvironment, leading to its degradation, mitigating the risk of unintended degradation and “off-target” effect of GOx in normal tissues. The exposure of ZIF-8 results in zinc overload and activates the catalytic reaction of GOx. The consequent depletion of glucose facilitates starvation therapy, while the generated H₂O₂, in synergy with zinc ions, intensifies oxidative stress. H₂O₂ can produce more potent reactive oxygen species when exposed to ultrasound, which subsequently react with L-arginine to generate higher levels of nitric oxide for gas therapy. Both <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i> studies demonstrate that this platform achieves precise and efficient antitumor effects. This research offers an innovative strategy for the development of cascade catalytic reaction systems and targeted therapeutic platforms.