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Human heavy-chain ferritin (HFn) possesses a stable and uniform cage-like structure, tumor-targeting properties, self-assembly capabilities, and biocompatibility, rendering it an ideal candidate for drug delivery. Here, we developed a dual modified HFn-based nanocage (DFn) that targets the urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) and, at the same time, is responsive to the tumor microenvironment for controlled extracellular drug release. This DFn was used to co-encapsulate a photosensitizer (CPZ) and a hypoxia-activated prodrug (TPZ), creating the multifunctional nanoparticles C/T@DFn. In vitro cellular assays demonstrated that C/T@DFn significantly outperformed both unmodified HFn-based nanoparticles and its counterpart without the uPARtargeting motif in inhibiting tumor cell survival, proliferation, and migration, and showed enhanced tumor cell spheroids penetration. In vivo studies further demonstrated the improved tumor-specific accumulation and antitumor efficacy of the loaded cargo in the DFn nanocages in comparison with wild-type HFn. This improved therapeutic effect is achieved through receptor-mediated targeting and tumor microenvironment-responsive release of the cargo from the DFn nanocages, resulting in synergistic action of CPZ and TPZ within the tumor tissue. Overall, this study introduces an ideal ferritin-based nanoplatform for the efficient co-delivery of therapeutic agents, offering a promising strategy for targeted tumor therapy.
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
ISSN: 0141-8130
Year: 2025
Volume: 303
7 . 7 0 0
JCR@2023
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ESI Highly Cited Papers on the List: 0 Unfold All
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30 Days PV: 2