Mechanically Triggered DNA Nanovehicles for Targeted Dual‐Drug Cancer Therapy

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Authors: Murali Mohana Rao Singuru, Priyanka Bhattacharyya, Mingxu You
Cited by: 1
References: 25

Abstract

Stimuli-responsive dual-drug delivery systems enable precise therapeutic control by co-releasing multiple agents, enhancing synergy while reducing dosage and side effects. Mechanical dysregulation is a hallmark of various diseases, yet force-responsive platforms remain rare. Here, we introduce a DNA-based mechanical nanovehicle that releases two anticancer drugs-TMPyP4 and doxorubicin-in response to tensile forces generated by integrin receptors at cell-cell junctions. The cholesterol-modified DNA constructs anchor to the cell membrane and undergoes force-induced structural changes, triggering rapid drug release under defined mechanical conditions. Our studies demonstrated selective activation in HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cells, achieving potent cytotoxicity while minimizing off-target effects in low-tension HEK293T cells. This modular platform integrates mechanosensing, real-time force visualization, and targeted therapy, establishing a new class of mechanoresponsive dual-drug delivery systems for safer and more effective cancer treatments.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Force Microscopy Techniques and Applications Cellular Mechanics and Interactions Supramolecular Chemistry and Complexes

Publication details

Journal / source
Advanced Science
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
13
Issue
39
Pages
e75286–e75286
Publication date
15 April 2026
Language
EN