Manganese-potentiated cGAS-STING activation with ATM/PRMT5 inhibition remodels the immunosuppressive microenvironment in osteosarcoma <i>via</i> bone-targeted delivery.

Tong, Zhaochen; Li, Yuezhan; Zhang, Lingpu; Wen, Sijie; Wang, Dong; Li, Zixin; Peng, Yi; Wang, Weiguo et al. · Bioact Mater · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Osteosarcoma (OS), the most common malignant bone tumor, remains challenging to treat because of poor drug delivery to bone tissue and limited response to immunotherapy. To overcome these hurdles, we developed a bone-targeted, glutathione (GSH)-responsive polymeric nanoparticle (NP<sup>ALN/Mn</sup>-AP) that chelates manganese (Mn) and delivers an ATM inhibitor (AZD0156) and a PRMT5 inhibitor (GSK3326595). By functionalizing this nanoplatform with alendronate (ALN) into NP<sup>ALN/Mn</sup>-AP, we achieve preferential accumulation in bone tumors. Upon cellular uptake, elevated intracellular GSH levels in OS cells trigger the controlled release of both inhibitors. Inhibiting ATM and PRMT5 amplifies DNA damage and activates the cGAS-STING pathway, while Mn ions further enhance this innate immune signaling by promoting cytosolic DNA sensing. Together, these effects reshape the tumor microenvironment toward a more immune-responsive state and promote antitumor immunity in osteosarcoma. <i>In vivo</i> studies demonstrate that NP<sup>ALN/Mn</sup>-AP significantly inhibits OS progression and boosts systemic immune responses. This dual-action, bone-specific nanotherapeutic platform synchronized DNA-repair inhibition and Mn-enhanced immune-stimulation, offering a promising new approach for effective osteosarcoma treatment.