Research progress on anti-tumor effects of arsenic and its compounds

The research on arsenic and arsenicals in anti-tumor applications has progressed beyond traditional arsenic trioxide (ATO), entering the era of innovative preparations. Nanorealgar, as an efficient and low-toxicity controlled-release prodrug, holds promise for targeting cancer stem cells in its novel formulations. Structurally novel organic/poly-organic arsenicals have broken through the limitations of ATO in treating solid tumors. Two-dimensional arsenene nanosheets further enable the integration of chemodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and imaging-guided theranostics. This article systematically reviews the progress of these novel arsenic-based formulations in enhancing antitumor efficacy through multi-mechanistic synergies, offering new strategies to overcome tumor heterogeneity and drug resistance.