Platinum-based functional nanomaterials: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies in cancer radiotherapy sensitization

Radiotherapy (RT) is an important treatment option for cancer. However, its efficacy is limited by tumor radioresistance caused by hypoxic microenvironments, overactivated DNA damage repair mechanisms in tumor cells, and unavoidable radiation-induced injury to surrounding normal tissues. In recent years, platinum-based functional nanomaterials (PFNs) have emerged as promising radiosensitizers because of their remarkable photoelectric attenuation characteristics and unique chemical and biological properties. Considerable attention has been devoted to elucidating the mechanisms by which PFNs enhance radiosensitivity and to optimizing their design for improved targeting accuracy and radiosensitization efficiency. In this review, we systematically summarize the radiosensitization mechanisms mediated by PFNs, exploring their principles from physical, biological, and biochemical perspectives. We also discuss common strategies for designing radiosensitizing PFNs, review recent advances in their application for tumor RT sensitization, and highlight their clinical potential and current challenges. This review provides a reference for the further development and clinical translation of PFNs in RT.