TRAIL-driven targeting and reversing cervical cancer radioresistance by seleno-nanotherapeutics through regulating cell metabolism

Recently, radioresistance has become a major obstacle in the radiotherapy of cervical cancer. To demonstrate enhanced radiosensitization against radioresistant cervical cancer, radioresistant cervical cancer cell line was developed and the mechanism of radioresistance was explored. Due to the overexpression of (death receptor 5, DR5) in cervical cancer, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-overexpressed cervical cancer cell membrane-camouflaged Cu_2−xSe nanomedicine (CCMT) was designed. Since the CCMT was encapsulated with TRAIL-modified cell membrane, it represented high target to cervical cancer cell and immune evasion. Furthermore, Cu_2−xSe had the ability to scavenge glutathione (GSH) and produce ·OH with excess H₂O₂ in the tumor microenvironment. The presence of CCMT combined with radiation therapy could effectively increase the ¹O₂ produced by X-rays. In vitro and in vivo studies elaborated that CCMT exhibited excellent radiosensitization properties to reverse radiotolerance by scavenging GSH and promoting DNA damage, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential damage and metabolic disruption. Collectively, this study suggested that the development of TRAIL-overexpressed cell membrane-camouflaged Cu_2−xSe nanomedicine could advance future cervical cancer treatment and minimize the disadvantages associated with radiation treatment.