Recent Advances in Polyoxometalate Based Nanoplatforms Mediated Reactive Oxygen Species Cancer Therapy

Abstract

The potential of reactive oxygen species (ROS) cancer therapy in tumor treatment has been greatly enhanced by the introduction of catalytically superior polyoxometalate (POM)‐based nanoplatforms, mainly composed of atomic clusters consisting of pre‐transition metals and oxygen. These nanoplatforms have unique advantages, such as Fenton activity at neutral pH, induction of cellular ferroptosis instead of just apoptosis, and sensitivity to external field stimulation. However, there are also inevitable challenges such as neutralization of ROS by the antioxidant system of the tumor microenvironment (TME), hypoxia, and limited hydrogen peroxide concentrations. This review article aims to provide an overview of recent research advancements in POM‐based nanoplatforms for ROS therapy from the perspective of chemical reactions and biological processes, addressing endogenous and exogenous factors that affect the antitumor efficacy. Endogenous factors include the mechanism of ROS generation by POM, the impact of pH and antioxidant systems on POM, and the various manners of tumor cell death. Exogenous stimuli mainly include light, heat, X‐rays, and electricity. The article analyzes the specific mechanisms of action of each influencing factor in the first two sections, concluding with the limitations of the present study and some possible directions for future research.

Repurposing Therapeutic Drugs Complexed to Vanadium in Cancer

“…Metal complexes and polyoxidometalates are being delivered in nanoparticles or nanocomposites containing metal compounds (metal–organic frameworks, MOFs), as these may reduce toxic effects and enhance anticancer properties. Polyoxidometalate-based metal–organic frameworks (POM-based MOFs) have also been described as promising agents against cancer [ 100 , 101 , 102 , 103 ]. However, the knowledge regarding the specific mechanisms of action, potential side effects, and long-term safety of vanadium in various forms, such as organic complexes, POMs, nanoparticles, or MOFs, is currently limited and requires further exploration through fundamental research and clinical studies.…”