# Nanoceria as Next-Generation Immunotherapeutics: Applications in Chronic Inflammation, Cancer, and Tissue Repair

## TL;DR

Nanoceria, tiny particles that mimic enzymes, show promise in treating chronic inflammation, cancer, and tissue repair by modulating immune responses.

## Contribution

This review highlights nanoceria's unique catalytic properties and their potential as next-generation immunotherapeutics.

## Key findings

- Nanoceria can mimic enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase to reduce harmful reactive oxygen species.
- They modulate immune cell activation and cytokine production, offering therapeutic benefits in inflammation and cancer.
- Nanoceria show adaptability in imaging and tissue repair, with potential for clinical translation.

## Abstract

The immune system is crucial in protecting against disease, but it can also contribute to chronic illnesses when it malfunctions, with different conditions involving either inflammation or immune suppression. Current treatments often fall short due to limited effectiveness and side effects. Nanomedicine, particularly cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria), offers promising potential due to its unique therapeutic properties and role in modulating macrophages. Nanoceria (<5 nm) possess the catalytic ability to mimic natural enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase, enabling effective scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a central role in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation and cancer. This review comprehensively summarizes the current advances in the application of nanoceria for inflammatory and anti-inflammatory therapy, including their modulatory effects on immune cell activation, cytokine production, and resolution of inflammatory responses. We discuss the mechanisms underlying their immunomodulatory actions in various disease contexts, such as rheumatoid arthritis, women’s health conditions (e.g., endometriosis), wound healing, and cancer. Additionally, the review highlights biocompatibility, therapeutic efficacy, adaptability in imaging (theranostics), and challenges in translating nanoceria-based therapies into clinical practice. The multifunctionality of nanoceria positions them as innovative candidates for next-generation immunotherapy aimed at efficiently controlling inflammation and promoting tissue repair.