Copper‐Containing Mesoporous Bioactive Glass Nanoparticles: A Novel Radiosensitizer for Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer

Radiotherapy (RT) is widely recognized as a standard treatment for nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recent advancements have focused on the application of nanomaterials to enhance the efficacy of RT, thereby increasing tumor sensitivity to radiation while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. In this study, copper‐containing mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles is evaluated (Cu‐MBGNs) for their potential as radiosensitizers in NSCLC treatment. Cu‐MBGNs exhibited selective cytotoxicity toward NSCLC cells, with minimal effects on normal bronchial epithelial cells. Moreover, Cu‐MBGNs significantly improved the therapeutic efficacy of RT, primarily by increasing the generation of radiation‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS). This enhancement is likely driven by the ability of internalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles to generate ROS, in conjunction with the catalytic activity of copper ions. During irradiation, Cu 2+ is reduced to Cu + or Cu 0 , catalyzing the production of ROS. In vivo experiments further confirmed that the combination of Cu‐MBGNs with RT significantly suppressed tumor growth without inducing noticeable systemic toxicity or adverse effects. The biosafety and favorable in vivo compatibility of Cu‐MBGNs underscore their potential for clinical translation. Overall, these findings highlight Cu‐MBGNs as promising stimuli‐responsive nanomaterial‐based radiosensitizers, offering a novel strategy to enhance the precision, efficacy, and safety of RT for NSCLC.