Scientists develop copper depletion strategy for advanced cuprococcal disease treatment

A research team from Nanjing University introduced an innovative approach to copper ptosis treatment by depleting copper levels within tumor cells, challenging the current paradigm focused on copper overproduction.

The study, published in the journal Chemical Science, uses mesoporous zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles as “copper nanoconsumers” to efficiently remove copper ions from cancer cells. This new method provides a targeted and safer alternative to existing treatments that rely on excessive copper accumulation and carry significant risks of toxicity and resistance.

The copper depletion strategy relies on the unique properties of ZnS nanoparticles that interact with intracellular copper ions through a cation exchange mechanism. This process disrupts important functions of cancer cells, such as mitochondrial respiration and redox balance, leading to cell death.

By combining this copper-depleting effect with a DNAzyme that inhibits glucose metabolism, this therapy attacks cancer cells in a multifaceted manner. This study further demonstrated that this approach enhances the efficacy of photothermal therapy and provides a powerful and multifaceted cancer treatment.

This breakthrough has revolutionized the landscape of cuproptosis-based cancer therapy. By focusing on reducing rather than increasing copper levels, this new method addresses significant limitations of current strategies and opens the door to more precise and effective treatments. With promising preclinical results, copper depletion approaches have the potential to transform therapeutic practices and improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.