Enhanced ferroptosis by light-triggered biomimetic nano-erythrocyte membranes for tumor synergistic therapy

Breast cancer is the most prevalent fatal cancer among women worldwide and the leading cause of death for women. Ferroptosis is a form of programmed cell death that relies on iron and is non-apoptotic, triggered by the inhibition of the cellular antioxidant system. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) employs photosensitizers to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), increasing oxidative stress in tumor cells. When combined with ferroptosis, PDT can work synergistically to regulate intracellular redox balance. In this study, we designed engineered nano-erythrocyte membranes for targeted delivery of Chlorin e6 (Ce6) and cisplatin (DDP) to enhance breast cancer treatment. By using mild ultrasound, Ce6 and DDP were co-loaded onto the nano-erythrocyte membranes, combining ferroptosis inducers and photosensitizers to combat breast cancer. To improve targeting capability towards breast cancer, RGD cyclic peptides were modified onto the nano-erythrocyte membranes through a thiol–maleimide coupling reaction. The RGD-modified nano-erythrocyte membranes co-loaded with Ce6 and DDP not only inherited the good stability and significant biocompatibility of red blood cell membranes but also promoted the uptake by breast cancer cells, effectively inducing ferroptosis in these cells. In conclusion, this multifunctional ‘natural’ nanodrug delivery system provides an effective and safe method for PDT combined with ferroptosis for breast cancer treatment.