Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicle (OMV)-Encapsulated TiO Nanoparticles: A Dual-Action Strategy for Enhanced Radiotherapy and Immunomodulation in Oral Cancer Treatment.

Oral squamous-cell carcinoma (OSCC) poses significant treatment challenges due to its high recurrence rates and the limitations of current therapies. Titanium dioxide (TiO) nanoparticles are promising radiosensitizers, while bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are known for their immunomodulatory properties. This study investigates the potential of OMV-encapsulated TiO nanoparticles (TiO@OMV) to combine these effects for improved OSCC treatment. TiO nanoparticles were synthesized using a hydrothermal method and encapsulated within OMVs derived from Escherichia coli. The TiO@OMV carriers were evaluated for their ability to enhance radiosensitivity and stimulate immune responses in OSCC cell lines. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, macrophage recruitment, and selective cytotoxicity toward cancer cells were assessed. TiO@OMV demonstrated significant radiosensitization and immune activation compared to unencapsulated TiO nanoparticles. The system selectively induced cytotoxicity in OSCC cells, sparing normal cells, and enhanced ROS generation and macrophage-mediated antitumor responses. This study highlights TiO@OMV as a dual-action therapeutic platform that synergizes radiotherapy and immunomodulation, offering a targeted and effective strategy for OSCC treatment. The approach could improve therapeutic outcomes and reduce the adverse effects associated with conventional therapies.