Copper-Doxorubicin as a Nanoparticle Cargo Retains Efficacy with Minimal Toxicity

The study explored the use of a copper−doxorubicin complex within liposomes for multidose chemotherapy, aiming to reduce systemic toxicity while maintaining efficacy. The complex showed stable circulation, with significant retention in the blood pool and reduced doxorubicin fluorescence in the heart and skin compared to traditional formulations. Over a 28-day treatment period, the copper−doxorubicin liposomes did not cause systemic toxicity, unlike ammonium sulfate-loaded doxorubicin liposomes, which led to cardiac hypertrophy, weight, and hair loss. The study also incorporated mTOR inhibition and therapeutic ultrasound to enhance treatment efficacy, resulting in significant tumor regression or complete disappearance.