The synthesis of a nanodrug using metal-based nanozymes conjugated with ginsenoside Rg3 for pancreatic cancer therapy

Abstract

Nanozymes have limited applications in clinical practice due to issues relating to their safety, stability, biocompatibility, and relatively low catalytic activity in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in vivo. Herein, we report a synergistic enhancement strategy involving the conjugation of metal-based nanozymes (Fe@Fe₃O₄) with natural bioactive organic molecules (ginsenoside Rg3) to establish a new nanodrug. Importantly, this metal–organic nanocomposite drug ensured the stability and biosafety of the nanozyme cores and the cellular uptake efficiency of the whole nanodrug entity. This nanodrug is based on integrating the biological characteristics and intrinsic physicochemical properties of bionics. The glycoside chain of Rg3 forms a hydrophilic layer on the outermost layer of the nanodrug to improve the biocompatibility and pharmacokinetics. Additionally, Rg3 can activate apoptosis and optimize the activity and status of normal cells. Internal nanozymes enter the TME and release Fe³⁺ and Fe²⁺, and the central metal Fe(0) continuously generates highly active Fe²⁺ under the conditions of the TME and in the presence of Fe³⁺, maintaining the catalytic activity. Therefore, these nanozymes can effectively produce reactive oxygen species and oxygen in the TME, thereby promoting the apoptosis of cancer cells. Thus, we propose the use of a new type of metal–organic nanocomposite material as a synergistic strategy against cancer.