A multifunctional metal-based nanozyme for CT/PTI-guided photothermal/starvation/chemodynamic therapy against colon tumor

Colon cancer is a major global health threat. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates. Conventional methods, like colonoscopies and CT scans, have limitations, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies. This study introduces an IP6-coated nanozyme, CeO₂@Au@IP6 (CeAIP), for diagnosing and treating colon cancer. IP6 inhibits cancer cell growth and improves the stability and dispersibility of the nanozyme. The peroxidase activity of cerium dioxide (CeO₂) alleviates tumor hypoxia and generates toxic hydroxyl radicals. Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) utilize the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect for photothermal therapy (PTT) and exhibit peroxidase- and glucose oxidase-like activities. This combination enhances the therapeutic effects of PTT, starvation therapy (ST), and chemodynamic therapy (CDT), while also enabling dual-modality CT/PT imaging. CeAIP NPs effectively treat colon cancer with PTT, ST, and CDT under 808 nm near-infrared laser irradiation. This integrated nanozyme-based approach offers hope for early detection and treatment of colon cancer, potentially improving cure rates.