Mitochondrial targeting nano-curcumin for attenuation on PKM2 and FASN.

Tumor cells are sensitive to the disturbance of mitochondrial functions. Attenuation of dysfunctional mitochondria by natural compounds is an emerging strategy for the recovery of abnormal energy metabolism of cancer. To develop a nano-sized curcumin (CUR) in attenuating the energy metabolism of cancer cells, herein, a coral-shaped nano-transporter DNA-FeS-DA nanoparticle was synthesized using double-stranded DNA rich in 'GAG' and 'GC' series as a template and poly-dopamine as an adhesive. CUR was successfully loaded to DNA-FeS-DA with a molar ratio of ssDNA: CUR of 1:16, forming CUR@DNA-FeS-DA. This nano-curcumin can readily enter mitochondrion in MCF-7 cancer cells. The CUR@DNA-FeS-DA nanocomposite displays desirable photothermal effect and stability, while its CUR can be released gradually in the weak acid environment. The expression of both pyruvate kinase M2 and fatty acid synthase in the MCF-7 cancer cells were noticeably inhibited by CUR@DNA-FeS-DA. Given the controlled release and mitochondria-targeting properties, this CUR@DNA-FeS-DA nanocomposite is a promising new drug entity for intervening the energy metabolism of cancer cells.