NO- and H2S-releasing nanomaterials: A crosstalk signaling pathway in cancer

Author(s)

dos Reis, Roberta Albino ; Sarkar, Ishani ; Rodrigues, Maiara Goncalves ; Matson, John B. ; Seabra, Amedea Barozzi ; Kashfi, Khosrow

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: NITRIC OXIDE-BIOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY; v. 151, p. 14-pg., 2024-09-05.

Abstract

The gasotransmitters nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) play important roles not only in maintaining physiological functions, but also in pathological conditions and events. Importantly, these molecules show a complex interplay in cancer biology, demonstrating both tumor-promoting and anti-tumor activities depending on their concentration, flux, and the environmental redox state. Additionally, various cell types respond differently to NO and H2S. These gasotransmitters can be synergistically combined with traditional anticancer treatments such as radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and phototherapy. Notably, NO, and more recently H2S, have been shown to reverse multidrug resistance. Nanomaterials to deliver NO donors and, to a lesser extent, H2S donors, have emerged as a promising approach for targeted delivery of these gasotransmitters. Nanotechnology has advanced the delivery of anticancer drugs, enhancing efficiency and reducing side effects on non-cancerous cells. This review highlights recent progress in the design of NO and H2S-releasing nanomaterials for anticancer effects. It also explores the interactions between NO and H2S, which are crucial for developing combined therapies and nanomedicines with minimal side effects. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/00321-0 - Nanomaterials combined with nitric oxide donors for biological applications
• Grantee: Amedea Barozzi Seabra
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 22/14645-2 - Nitric oxide releasing hydrogels and vascular prosthesis for cardiovascular applications
• Grantee: Marcelo Ganzarolli de Oliveira
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 23/16363-7 - Duo-gasotransmitters for biomedical applications: bioformulation of nanoparticles containing Aspirin-NOSH
• Grantee: Roberta Albino dos Reis
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral