Harnessing Biomimetic Sodium Metaniobate Piezocatalysts for Targeted Sonopiezoelectric Therapy in Lung Cancer With Synergistic Apoptosis/Pyroptosis Induction

Piezoelectric materials generate charges that directly interact with cancerous tissue or stimulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for innovative tumor therapies mediated by sonography. However, the precise optimization of piezoelectric nanomaterials, combined with overcoming apoptosis resistance, represents a substantial challenge that requires immediate attention. In this study, we have strategically designed cancer cell membrane-coated sodium metaniobate (NaNbO₃; MNO) piezoelectric nanocubes with inherent homologous targeting capabilities and exceptional ROS-generating potential for the treatment of lung cancer. The cell membrane encapsulation technique significantly enhances the accumulation and retention of the nanopiezoelectric system at the tumor site. Crucially, in addition to its apoptotic induction properties, the increased ROS production activates pyroptosis via the ROS-NLRP3-Caspase-1-GSDMD signaling pathway, thereby augmenting therapeutic efficacy against tumors. Both in vitro and in vivo antineoplastic evaluations validate the advantages and potential of this biomimetic nanopiezoelectric system. This study underscores the role of biomimetic sonopiezoelectric engineering in catalytically inducing a dual mode of cell death, involving both apoptosis and pyroptosis, within lung cancer cells.