Gaseous signaling molecule-releasing hybrid nanomaterials for therapeutic applications

Given their relevance in various physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, gaseous signaling molecules (GSMs), such as nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), are promising therapeutics for derailing various diseases at precisely controlled concentrations. However, the delivery and release of GSMs have been challenged by the heterogeneity of biological systems. Carefully constructed hybrid materials have exhibited enhanced functional ability owing to the adjusted individual characteristics. In this minireview, we surveyed the mechanisms of gas therapy, recent exceptional studies on the controlled release of GSMs from hybrid nanoplatforms, and their applications in the treatment of various diseases. Single gas therapies and their combined modalities with conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and immunotherapy have been summarized, with critical analysis of the contribution of the metallic elements in the various nanoplatforms. Moreover, the challenges and prospects of hybrid GSM releasers as promising healings have been discussed.