A major challenge in cuproptosis-based cancer therapy is achieving tumor-selective activation without relying on external copper administration. Published in Biomedical Analysis, a new study from Guizhou Medical University introduces an iRGD-modified PLGA-PEG nanoparticle system that delivers the copper-chelating agent TPEN directly to tumor cells. By exploiting the high copper levels already present in cancer cells, this approach triggers copper-dependent cell death while reducing potential systemic toxicity associated with metal delivery.

POSTECH develops ‘stealth’ anticancer nanoparticles made from mussel adhesive proteins that 'lie in wait and attack only cancer cells'.

Researchers from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and partner institutions have discovered that compounds made by certain gut bacteria can help the immune system fight cancer. The study, published in Cell Reports Medicine, identified a gut bacterium called Bacteroides uniformis that appears to slow melanoma tumor growth.