Cu3-xP nanocrystals filled halloysite nanotubes for chemodynamic therapy of breast cancer

Copper-based Fenton-like agents have the ability to convert weakly oxidizing H 2 O 2 into highly oxidizing hydroxyl radicals (·OH) at tumor sites during chemodynamic therapy (CDT). In this study, the interfacial attraction properties between the negatively charged OCP − in sodium phosphathynolate (NaOCP) and the positively charged environment inside the lumen of halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were utilized to synthesize Cu 3-x P nanoparticles in situ within the HNTs. The study investigated the chemical composition , morphology, and structure of Cu 3-x P@HNTs. The results indicated uniform distribution of Cu 3-x P particles measuring 3–5 nm within HNTs' lumen. Experiments conducted internally and externally to cells confirmed the catalytic capability of Cu 3-x P@HNTs to oxidize H 2 O 2 to ·OH. Furthermore, CP@H-CM was synthesized by enclosing Cu 3-x P@HNTs in a cancer cell membrane , which selectively targets cancer cells. The experiments revealed the cytotoxicity of CP@H-CM on 4T1 cells. Additionally, the antitumor efficacy of CP@H-CM was evaluated in vivo through tumor recurrence experiments in mice. Moreover, the efficacy of CP@H-CM in repressing tumor growth was enhanced by incorporating infrared laser , indicating a synergistic photodynamic treatment for breast cancer. This study presents an efficacious and viable therapeutic approach to inhibit postoperative tumor reappearance. The implications of this approach are promising, particularly in the domain of tumor treatment and metastasis.