The aim of this study was to construct redox- and pH-responsive degradable manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanosheets for cancer theranostic application. The small MnO2 nanosheets were synthesized, and then functionalized by hyaluronic acid (HA), demonstrating excellent stability and tumor-targeting ability. Cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum [CDDP]) was absorbed by the nanosheets through a physical action, which was designed as MnO2/HA/CDDP. The prepared MnO2/HA/CDDP formulation was able to efficiently deliver CDDP to tumor cells in vitro and in vivo, resulting in improved therapeutic efficiency. Subsequently, they were triggered by lower pH and higher level of reduced glutathione to generate Mn(2+), enabling magnetic resonance imaging. The smart multifunctional system combining efficient magnetic resonance imaging and chemotherapy has the potential to be used as a tumor-targeting theranostic nanomedicine.
Keywords: hyaluronic acid; magnetic resonance imaging; manganese dioxide nanosheets; theranostic application.