Targeting Peptostreptococcus anaerobius with an Iron‐Based Nanozyme Reverses Ferroptosis Resistance and Enhances Antitumor Immunity in Colorectal Cancer

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Authors: Yinghao Cao, Jun Wang, Hanwenchen Wang, Xiang Sun, Fang Fang, Shiying Li, Jianping Liu, Changrong Shi, Pengyuan Qi, Jianhua Zou, Xiaoyuan Chen, Kailin Cai
Cited by: 2
References: 54

Abstract

The intratumoral microbiota is a critical determinant of therapeutic outcomes in colorectal cancer (CRC). Although several microbial species have been identified that influence CRC development and treatment resistance, effective strategies for precisely modulating these bacteria remain limited. In this study, we identify Peptostreptococcus anaerobius as a tumor-enriched anaerobe that promotes CRC progression by inhibiting ferroptosis. To counteract this, we engineered a composite iron-based nanozyme encapsulating lincomycin, which selectively targets and eradicates intratumoral P. anaerobius, thereby reversing ferroptosis resistance in CRC. Simultaneously, the nanozyme's inherent peroxidase (POD) like activity catalyzes hydroxyl radical generation, enhancing intracellular oxidative stress and promoting ferroptosis. This dual mechanism-microbial clearance and ROS-mediated ferroptosis induction-synergistically suppresses tumor growth. Moreover, ferroptotic cancer cells release large amounts of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD), promoting dendritic cell (DC) maturation and T cell activation, thereby enhancing anti-tumor immunity. Our findings highlight a novel ferroptosis-centered therapeutic strategy integrating microbiota modulation and catalytic nanomedicine for precise CRC treatment.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Ferroptosis and cancer prognosis Nanoplatforms for cancer theranostics Immune cells in cancer

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Science
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
13
Issue
35
Pages
e16272–e16272
Publication date
12 January 2026
Language
EN