cis-Platinum pro-drug-attached CuFeS2 nanoplates for in vivo photothermal/photoacoustic imaging and chemotherapy/photothermal therapy of cancer

Platinum based theranostics nanoplatforms for antitumor applications

Platinum (Pt) based nanoplatforms are biocompatible nanoagents with photothermal antitumor performance, while exhibiting excellent radiotherapy sensitization properties. Pt-nanoplatforms have extensive research prospects in the realm of cancer treatment due to their highly selective and minimally invasive treatment mode with low damage, and integrated diagnosis and treatment with image monitoring and collaborative drug delivery. Platinum based anticancer chemotherapeutic drugs can kill tumor cells by damaging DNA through chemotherapy. Meanwhile, Pt-nanoplatforms also have good electrocatalytic activity, which can mediate novel electrodynamic therapy. Simultaneously, Pt(II) based compounds also have potential as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy for malignant tumors. Pt-nanoplatforms can also modulate the immunosuppressive environment and synergistically ablate tumor cells in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. This article reviews the research progress of platinum based nanoplatforms in new technologies for cancer therapy, starting from widely representative examples of platinum based nanoplatforms in chemotherapy, electrodynamic therapy, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and immunotherapy. Finally, multimodal imaging techniques of platinum based nanoplatforms for biomedical diagnosis are briefly discussed.

Emerging platinum(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics: A new epoch for platinum-based cancer therapy

Owing to the unique DNA damaging cytotoxicity, platinum (Pt)-based chemotherapy has long been the first-line choice for clinical oncology. Unfortunately, Pt drugs are restricted by the severe dose-dependent toxicity and drug resistance. Correspondingly, Pt(IV) prodrugs are developed with the aim to improve the antitumor performance of Pt drugs. However, as "free" molecules, Pt(IV) prodrugs are still subject to unsatisfactory in vivo destiny and antitumor efficacy. Recently, Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics, inheriting both the merits of Pt(IV) prodrugs and nanotherapeutics, have emerged and demonstrated the promise to address the underexploited dilemma of Pt-based cancer therapy. Herein, we summarize the latest fronts of emerging Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics. First, the basic outlines of Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics are overviewed. Afterwards, how versatile Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics overcome the multiple biological barriers of antitumor drug delivery is introduced in detail. Moreover, advanced combination therapies based on multimodal Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics are discussed with special emphasis on the synergistic mechanisms. Finally, prospects and challenges of Pt(IV) prodrug nanotherapeutics for future clinical translation are spotlighted.

Polysaccharide‑platinum complexes for cancer theranostics

Platinum anticancer drugs have been explored and developed in recent years to reduce systematic toxicities and resist drug resistance. Polysaccharides derived from nature have abundant structures as well as pharmacological activities. The review provides insights on the design, synthesis, characterization and associating therapeutic application of platinum complexes with polysaccharides that are classified by electronic charge. The complexes give birth to multifunctional properties with enhanced drug accumulation, improved tumor selectivity and achieved synergistic antitumor effect in cancer therapy. Several techniques developing polysaccharides-based carriers newly are also discussed. Moreover, the lasted immunoregulatory activities of innate immune reactions triggered by polysaccharides are summarized. Finally, we discuss the current shortcomings and outline potential strategies for improving platinum-based personalized cancer treatment. Using platinum-polysaccharides complexes for improving the immunotherapy efficiency represents a promising framework in future.

Platinum Drug-Incorporating Polymeric Nanosystems for Precise Cancer Therapy

Platinum (Pt) drugs are widely used in clinic for cancer therapy, but their therapeutic outcomes are significantly compromised by severe side effects and acquired drug resistance. With the emerging immunotherapy and imaging-guided cancer therapy, precise delivery and release of Pt drugs have drawn great attention these days. The targeting delivery of Pt drugs can greatly increase the accumulation at tumor sites, which ultimately enhances antitumor efficacy. Further, with the combination of Pt drugs and other theranostic agents into one nanosystem, it not only possesses excellent synergistic efficacy but also achieves real-time monitoring. In this review, after the introduction of Pt drugs and their characteristics, the recent progress of polymeric nanosystems for efficient delivery of Pt drugs is summarized with an emphasis on multi-modal synergistic therapy and imaging-guided Pt-based cancer treatment. In the end, the conclusions and future perspectives of Pt-encapsulated nanosystems are given.

Erythrocyte membrane-camouflaged Prussian blue nanocomplexes for combinational therapy of triple-negative breast cancer

Although combined photodynamic/photothermal therapy (PDT/PTT) has been used for cancer theranostics recently, their therapeutic efficacy has been compromised by the low O₂ partial pressure and high concentration of GSH in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Thus, the construction of intelligent TME-responsive nanocomplexes is a powerful strategy for addressing the above issues. In this study, MnO₂-coated Prussian blue nanocomplexes (PM NPs) were designed as O₂ suppliers and GSH depletion agents to reprogram the TME. Subsequently, tumor-targeting peptide (RGD)-modified erythrocyte membrane vesicles loaded with photosensitizer (Ce6) were used to camouflage PM NPs (PMRCR NPs). Importantly, the prepared PMRCR NPs exhibited excellent photothermal performance with a photothermal conversion efficiency of 44.9%. Moreover, the in vitro PDT/PTT was enhanced, by which the cell viability was reduced to 21.4%, which is lower than the 55.6% (PDT) and 66.7% (PTT) of PMRCR NPs with a single laser treatment. By modeling 4T1 tumor-bearing mice, the combined PDT/PTT of PMRCR NPs greatly inhibited tumor growth, and after 20 days, a tumor inhibition rate of 92.9% was achieved. This work provides a promising strategy by developing TME-reprogrammed multifunctional nanocomplexes to enhance PDT/PTT antitumor efficacy.

Valorization of waste Fe-rich sludge as erdite/KFeS2 rods under atmosphere condition and evaluation of their mutual transformation

Pilot scale production of one-dimensional (FeS₂)_n^n- rods was performed by using an automatic 20 L vessel at 80 °C under atmosphere condition with the resource utilization of Fe-rich sludge. The sludge was simulated at lab-scale with chemical pure of ferric trichloride. After the sludge treatment, the corresponding rods were not formed at room temperature. But by heating at 80 °C, erdite rod was well-crystallized after 0.5 h by only adding Na halite, and KFeS₂ rod was crystallized weakly after 2 h and highly at 10 h with the addition of K halite. After 48 h heating, the rods grow radially to 300 nm for erdite, but to 5 μm for KFeS₂. However, at room temperature, erdite rod was converted to high crystallized KFeS₂ in KOH water or ethanol solution, whilst the conversion of KFeS₂ rod to erdite also occurred in NaOH water solution, but terminated in NaOH ethanol solution, without any morphology change. It is also noted that with the presence of both Na and K halite, the rod was an intermediate of erdite to KFeS₂ with 1 μm length after heating at 100 °C but converted to 10-μm-length KFeS₂ crystal at the temperature of > 120 °C. The thermodynamic results confirmed that during the rod polymerization, the Fe(OH)₃HS^- formation was the sole rate-limiting step and showed a positive Gibbs value of 6.45 kJ/mol at room temperature and negative values at the temperature of > 48 °C. In summary, this method not only enabled the vaporization of waste Fe-rich sludge as value-added rods without generating any secondary waste but also showed a new route for the in situ conversion of erdite/KFeS₂ rods at room temperature.

Advances in Single-component inorganic nanostructures for photoacoustic imaging guided photothermal therapy

Phototheranostic based on photothermal therapy (PTT) and photoacoustic imaging (PAI), as one of avant-garde medical techniques, have sparked growing attention because it allows noninvasive, deeply penetrative, and highly selective and effective therapy. Among a variety of phototheranostic nanoagents, single-component inorganic nanostructures are found to be novel and attractive PAI and PTT combined nanotheranostic agents and received tremendous attention, which not only exhibit structural controllability, high tunability in physiochemical properties, size-dependent optical properties, high reproducibility, simple composition, easy functionalization, and simple synthesis process, but also can be endowed with multiple therapeutic and imaging functions, realizing the superior therapy result along with bringing less foreign materials into body, reducing systemic side effects and improving the bioavailability. In this review, according to their synthetic components, conventional single-component inorganic nanostructures are divided into metallic nanostructures, metal dichalcogenides, metal oxides, carbon based nanostructures, upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), metal organic frameworks (MOFs), MXenes, graphdiyne and other nanostructures. On the basis of this category, their detailed applications in PAI guide PTT of tumor treatment are systematically reviewed, including synthesis strategies, corresponding performances, and cancer diagnosis and therapeutic efficacy. Before these, the factors to influence on photothermal effect and the principle of in vivo PAI are briefly presented. Finally, we also comprehensively and thoroughly discussed the limitation, potential barriers, future perspectives for research and clinical translation of this single-component inorganic nanoagent in biomedical therapeutics.

In vivo photoacoustic image-guided tumor photothermal therapy and real-time temperature monitoring using a core-shell polypyrrole@CuS nanohybrid

Near-infrared (NIR) laser triggered theranostic platforms are increasingly used in clinical nanomedicine applications. In this work, a core-shell composite consisting of polypyrrole (PPy) coated copper sulfide (CuS) nanospheres with high photothermal efficiency and good photostability has been fabricated via a facile interfacial polymerization. The PPy@CuS nanohybrid had a hydrodynamic diameter of 58.5 nm with a CuS core and PPy shell and exhibited strong optical absorption and photon-to-heat conversion in the NIR region, leading to a sufficient photohyperthermic effect under irradiation with a 808 nm continuous wave laser. In vivo studies showed that the Ppy@CuS nanohybrids produced significant photoacoustic signals and exhibited remarkable photothermal therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the core-shell composites exhibited improved temperature elevation and photostability. The temperature-induced changes can be detected and monitored using photoacoustic imaging, thus allowing the control of the thermal dose while minimizing photothermal damage to surrounding healthy tissues. In summary, this study demonstrates that this novel platform could potentially be used for photoacoustic image-guided photothermal therapy and real-time temperature monitoring in cancer theranostics.

Recent advances in metal-organic frameworks and their composites for the phototherapy of skin wounds

Wound healing is a complex process that greatly affects the normal physiological activities of genes, proteins, signaling pathways, tissues, and organs. Bacterial infection could easily lead to serious tissue damage during wound healing, thus countering wound infections becomes a major challenge for clinicians and nursing professionals. At present, the exploration of highly effective, low toxicity and environment friendly methods for wound healing is attracting considerable interest all over the world. Recently, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have presented great potential for treating wound infections due to their unique characteristics of diversified functionality, large specific surface area, and high biocompatibility. These properties endow MOFs/MOF-based composites with an outstanding anti-wound infection effect, which is mainly attributed to the continuously released active components and the exerted catalytic activity with the assistance of phototherapy. In this review, the current progress of MOFs/MOF-based composites for the phototherapy of skin wounds is presented. Firstly, we illustrate the pathophysiological mechanisms, principles of phototherapy and the conventional methods for wound healing. Then, the structures and characteristics of MOFs are systematically summarized. Moreover, the review highlights the recent advances in the application of phototherapy for wound healing (including photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and synergistic therapy) based on various MOFs/MOF-based composites. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are provided for the further development of MOF-based materials for medical application.

Targeted delivery and enhanced uptake of chemo-photodynamic nanomedicine for melanoma treatment

Nanoparticles (NPs) modified with targeting ligands have often shown great potential in targeted drug delivery for tumor therapy. However, the clearance of NPs by the monocyte-phagocyte system (MPS) and the relatively low cellular uptake by tumor cells have significantly limited the antitumor efficacy of a variety of nanomedicines. Tumor microenvironment-mediated multidrug resistance also reduces the antitumor efficacy of internalized nanomedicines. Herein, we developed an innovative nanomedicine for combined chemo-photodynamic therapy of melanoma through targeted drug delivery and significantly improved the cellular uptake of the nanomedicine through the charge-reversal phenomenon. An amphiphilic platinum (IV)-polyethylenimine-chlorin e6 (Pt(IV)-PEI-Ce6) polymer was designed, prepared, and self-assembled into NPs (PPC) in an aqueous solution, and these NPs were subsequently coated with hyaluronic acid (HA) to afford PPC@HA. The surface-coated HA provided PPC with a negatively charged surface potential to reduce the clearance by the MPS during systemic circulation and enhanced the targeted delivery of PPC to CD44-overexpressing melanoma cells. Upon accumulation in the tumor site, hyaluronidase overexpressed in the tumor induced HA degradation to release the positively charged PPC, resulting in an increased internalization of PPC into tumor cells. Bioactive Pt(II) was released in response to high glutathione level in the tumor cells for effective tumor chemotherapy. Under 650 nm laser irradiation, Ce6 produced reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus driving photodynamic therapy. Finally, PPC@HA exhibited combined photodynamic-chemotherapeutic antitumor efficacy against the melanoma cells in mice. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Tumors are one of the greatest threats to human health, and chemotherapy has been one of the most common therapeutic modalities for treating tumors; however, many challenges related to chemotherapy remain, such as low delivery efficiency, side effects, and unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy. Nanomedicines modified with targeting ligands have often shown great potential in improving targeted drug delivery for tumor therapy; however, the clearance of nanomaterials by the monocyte-phagocyte system and the relatively low cellular uptake by tumor cells have significantly limited the antitumor efficacy of a variety of nanomedicines. Herein, we developed a novel charge-reversal-based, hyaluronic acid-coated, Pt(IV) prodrug and chlorin e6-based nanomedicine to improve systemic circulation and targeted accumulation of the nanomedicine in the tumor tissue and to enhance its intracellular uptake. This nanomedicine may provide a potential new platform to improve the drug content inside tumor cells and to effectively inhibit tumor growth through combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy.

Platinum prodrug nanoparticles inhibiting tumor recurrence and metastasis by concurrent chemoradiotherapy

Background

Although concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT), as one of the most effective antineoplastic therapies in clinic, can successfully inhibit the growth of tumor cells, a risk of developing secondary tumor is still an insurmountable barrier in clinical practice.

Results

Herein, a new platinum prodrug composed of tannic acid (TA) and Pt²⁺ (TA-Pt) complex film was synthesized on the surface of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles (NPs) with excellent stability and biocompatibility for enhanced CRT. In this system, TA-Pt complex could respond to the tumor acidic microenvironment and damage the DNA of tumor cells. Moreover, the internal iron core not only improved the effect of subsequent radiotherapy (RT), but also disrupted the iron balance in cells, inducing intracellular ferroptosis and eliminating apoptosis-resistant cells. In vitro and vivo experimental results indicated that more than 90% of tumor cells were depleted and more than 75% of the cured tumor-bearing mice evinced no recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

This work offered a new idea for combining the effective chemotherapy, RT and ferroptosis therapy to enhance the curative effect of CRT and inhibit tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Graphical Abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12951-022-01322-y.

Manganese oxide nanomaterials for bacterial infection detection and therapy

Bacterial infection has received substantial attention and poses a serious threat to human health. Although antibiotics can effectively fight against bacterial infection, the occurrence of antibiotic resistance has become increasingly serious in recent years, which tremendously hinders its clinical application. Consequently, it is urgent to explore novel strategies to achieve efficacious treatment of bacterial diagnosis and detection. Manganese dioxide (MnO₂) nanomaterial has been extensively reported in tumor therapy. Nevertheless, there are few antibacterial reviews of MnO₂. Herein, we will discuss the applications of MnO₂ in the detection and treatment of bacterial infection, including photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, improvement of hypoxia, dual-modal combination therapy, reactive oxygen species scavenging, magnetic resonance imaging, optical application of acoustic imaging, and so forth. This review is expected to provide meaningful guidance on further research of MnO₂ nanomaterial for antibacterial applications.

Two-dimensional biomaterials: material science, biological effect and biomedical engineering applications

To date, nanotechnology has increasingly been identified as a promising and efficient means to address a number of challenges associated with public health. In the past decade, two-dimensional (2D) biomaterials, as a unique nanoplatform with planar topology, have attracted explosive interest in various fields such as biomedicine due to their unique morphology, physicochemical properties and biological effect. Motivated by the progress of graphene in biomedicine, dozens of types of ultrathin 2D biomaterials have found versatile bio-applications, including biosensing, biomedical imaging, delivery of therapeutic agents, cancer theranostics, tissue engineering, as well as others. The effective utilization of 2D biomaterials stems from the in-depth knowledge of structure-property-bioactivity-biosafety-application-performance relationships. A comprehensive summary of 2D biomaterials for biomedicine is still lacking. In this comprehensive review, we aim to concentrate on the state-of-the-art 2D biomaterials with a particular focus on their versatile biomedical applications. In particular, we discuss the design, fabrication and functionalization of 2D biomaterials used for diverse biomedical applications based on the up-to-date progress. Furthermore, the interactions between 2D biomaterials and biological systems on the spatial-temporal scale are highlighted, which will deepen the understanding of the underlying action mechanism of 2D biomaterials aiding their design with improved functionalities. Finally, taking the bench-to-bedside as a focus, we conclude this review by proposing the current crucial issues/challenges and presenting the future development directions to advance the clinical translation of these emerging 2D biomaterials.

Co-delivery of nanoparticle and molecular drug by hollow mesoporous organosilica for tumor-activated and photothermal-augmented chemotherapy of breast cancer

BACKGROUND

In comparison with traditional therapeutics, it is highly preferable to develop a combinatorial therapeutic modality for nanomedicine and photothermal hyperthermia to achieve safe, efficient, and localized delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs into tumor tissues and exert tumor-activated nanotherapy. Biocompatible organic-inorganic hybrid hollow mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (HMONs) have shown high performance in molecular imaging and drug delivery as compared to other inorganic nanosystems. Disulfiram (DSF), an alcohol-abuse drug, can act as a chemotherapeutic agent according to its recently reported effectiveness for cancer chemotherapy, whose activity strongly depends on copper ions.

RESULTS

In this work, a therapeutic construction with high biosafety and efficiency was proposed and developed for synergistic tumor-activated and photothermal-augmented chemotherapy in breast tumor eradication both in vitro and in vivo. The proposed strategy is based on the employment of HMONs to integrate ultrasmall photothermal CuS particles onto the surface of the organosilica and the molecular drug DSF inside the mesopores and hollow interior. The ultrasmall CuS acted as both photothermal agent under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation for photonic tumor hyperthermia and Cu2+ self-supplier in an acidic tumor microenvironment to activate the nontoxic DSF drug into a highly toxic diethyldithiocarbamate (DTC)-copper complex for enhanced DSF chemotherapy, which effectively achieved a remarkable synergistic in-situ anticancer outcome with minimal side effects.

CONCLUSION

This work provides a representative paradigm on the engineering of combinatorial therapeutic nanomedicine with both exogenous response for photonic tumor ablation and endogenous tumor microenvironment-responsive in-situ toxicity activation of a molecular drug (DSF) for augmented tumor chemotherapy.

An injectable and biodegradable nano-photothermal DNA hydrogel enhances penetration and efficacy of tumor therapy

The biological barrier of solid tumors hinders deep penetration of nanomedicine, constraining anticancer treatment. Moreover, the inherent multidrug resistance (MDR) of cancer tissues may further limit the efficacy of anti-tumor nanomedicine. We synthesized highly permeable, photothermal, injectable, and positively charged biodegradable nucleic acid hydrogel (DNA-gel) nanoparticles to deliver cancer drugs. The nanoparticles are derived from photothermal materials containing black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs). The intra-tumoral BPQDs improve the sensitivity of tumor cells to photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic treatment (PDT). Tumor cells take up the positively charged and controllable size DNA-gel nanoparticles, facilitating easy penetration and translocation of the particles across and within the cells. Mouse models demonstrated the anti-tumor activity of the DNA gel nanoparticles in vivo. In particular, the DNA gel nanoparticles enhanced clearance of both small and large tumor masses. Just 20 days after treatment, the tumor masses had been cleared. Compared to DOX chemotherapy alone, the DNA-gel treatment also significantly reduced drug resistance and improved the overall survival of mice with orthotopic breast tumors (83.3%, 78 d). Therefore, DNA gel nanoparticles are safe and efficient supplements for cancer therapy.

Valleriite, a Natural Two-Dimensional Composite: X-ray Absorption, Photoelectron, and Mössbauer Spectroscopy, and Magnetic Characterization

Valleriite is of interest as a mineral source of basic and precious metals and as an unusual material composed of two-dimensional (2D) Fe-Cu sulfide and magnesium hydroxide layers, whose characteristics are still very poorly understood. Here, the mineral samples of two types with about 50% of valleriites from Noril'sk ore provenance, Russia, were examined using Cu K- and Fe K-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ⁵⁷Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy, and magnetic measurements. The Cu K X-ray absorption near-edge structures (XANES) spectra resemble those of chalcopyrite, however, with a higher electron density at Cu⁺ centers and essentially differ from those of bornite Cu₅FeS₄; the Fe K-edge was less informative because of accompanying oxidized Fe-containing phases. The post-edge XANES and extended XAFS (EXAFS) analysis reveal differences in the bond lengths, e.g., additional metal-metal distances in valleriites as compared with chalcopyrite. The XPS spectra confirmed the Cu⁺ and Fe³⁺ state in the sulfide sheets and suggest that they are in electron equilibrium with (Mg, Al) hydroxide layers. Mössbauer spectra measured at room temperature comprise central doublets of paramagnetic Fe³⁺, which decreased at 78 K and almost disappeared at 4.2 K, producing a series of hyperfine Zeeman sextets due to internal magnetic fields arising in valleriites. Magnetic measurements do not reveal antiferromagnetic transitions known for bornite. The specific structure and properties of valleriite are discussed in particular as a platform for composites of the 2D transition metal sulfide and hydroxide (mono)layers stacked by the electrical charges, promising for a variety of applications.

Synthesis of one-for-all type Cu5FeS4 nanocrystals with improved near infrared photothermal and Fenton effects for simultaneous imaging and therapy of tumor

CuS materials exhibit excellent near infrared (NIR) photoabsorption and photothermal effect, but they are lack of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ability. Fe-based nanomaterials possess MRI capacity, but they usually exhibit poor NIR photoabsorption. In order to solve the above problems, we synthesize three kinds of Cu_xFe_yS_z samples, including FeS₂, CuFeS₂ and Cu₅FeS₄ nanomaterials. With the Cu/Fe ratios increase from 0/1.0 to 1.0/1.0 and 5.0/1.0, the localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) characteristic peaks shift to longer wavelength, and the photothermal transduction efficiencies go up from 24.4% to 36.6% and 45.9%. Thus, Cu₅FeS₄ is found to be the most excellent sample. Especially, Cu₅FeS₄ exhibits photothermal-enhanced Fenton effect, which can produce hydroxyl radical (·OH) under a wide pH range (e.g., pH = 5.4-7.4) to realize the chemodynamic effect. In addition, Cu₅FeS₄ can be employed as an efficient MRI contrast agent. When Cu₅FeS₄ dispersion is intravenously injected into the mouse, the tumor can be detected by MRI as well as thermal imaging, and eliminated through photothermal-enhanced chemodynamic effect. Therefore, Cu₅FeS₄ can be used as an efficient "one-for-all" type agent for MRI-guided photothermal-enhanced chemodynamic therapy of tumor.

Chemodynamic/photothermal synergistic therapy based on Ce-doped Cu–Al layered double hydroxides

Ultrathin CuAlCe layered double hydroxide nanosheets loaded with indocyanine green (ICG) were designed, and showed excellent synergetic chemodynamic/photothermal therapy.

Highly Penetrable and On-Demand Oxygen Release with Tumor Activity Composite Nanosystem for Photothermal/Photodynamic Synergetic Therapy

A deep penetrating and pH-responsive composite nanosystem was strategically developed to improve the efficacy of synergetic photothermal/photodynamic therapy (PTT/PDT) against hypoxic tumor. The designed nanosystem ([PHC]PP@HA NPs) was constructed by coloading hemoglobin (Hb) and chlorin e6 on polydopamine to build small-sized PHC NPs, which were encapsulated inside the polymer micelles (poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(ethylenimine)) and then capped with functionalized hyaluronic acid. The pH-responsive feature made [PHC]PP@HA NPs retain an initial size of ∼140 nm in blood circulation but rapidly release small PHC NPs (∼10 nm) with a high tumor-penetrating ability in the tumor microenvironment. The in vitro penetration experiment showed that the penetration depth of PHC NPs in the multicellular tumor spheroids exceeded 110 μm. The [PHC]PP@HA NPs exhibited excellent biocompatibility, deep tumor permeability, high photothermal conversion efficiency (47.09%), and low combination index (0.59) under hypoxic conditions. Notably, the nanosystem can freely adjust the release of oxygen and damaging PHC NPs in an on-demand manner on the basis of the feedback of tumor activity. This feedback tumor therapy significantly improved the synergistic effect of PTT/PDT and reduced its toxic side effects. The in vivo antitumor results showed that the tumor inhibition rate of [PHC]PP@HA NPs with an on-demand oxygen supply of Hb was ∼100%, which was much better than those of PTT alone and Hb-free nanoparticles ([PC]PP@HA NPs). Consequently, the [PHC]PP@HA NP-mediated PTT/PDT guided by feedback tumor therapy achieved an efficient tumor ablation with an extremely low tumor recurrence rate (8.3%) 60 d later, indicating the versatile potential of PTT/PDT.

Integration of TaOx with Bi2S3 for Targeted Multimodality Breast Cancer Theranostics

Early identification and treatment of breast cancer is very important for breast conserving therapy and to improve the prognosis and survival rates of patients. Multifunctional nanotheranostic agents are of particular importance in the field of precise nanomedicine, since they can augment the visualization and treatment of cancer. We developed a novel Bi₂S₃ nanoparticle coated with a hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified tantalum oxide (TaO_x) nanoshell (Bi₂S₃@TaO_x-HA). The as-prepared core/shell nanoparticles exhibited a high Bi₂S₃ nanoparticle loading efficiency of (67 wt %). The TaO_x nanoshell exhibited excellent biocompatibility and computed tomography imaging capacity, and the Bi₂S₃ nanoparticles exhibited an excellent photothermal transducing performance and computed tomography (CT) and photoacoustic imaging capacity. As a result of these merits, the Bi₂S₃@TaO_x core-shell nanoparticles can act as a theranostic agent for CT/photoacoustically monitored enhanced photothermal therapy. These findings will evoke new interest in future cancer therapeutic strategies based on biocompatible functional nanomaterials.

Fabrication of Anisotropic Cu Ferrite-Polymer Core-Shell Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Ablation of Cervical Cancer Cells

In this work we developed methylene blue-immobilized copper-iron nanoparticles (MB-CuFe NPs) through a facile one-step hydrothermal reaction to achieve a better phototherapeutic effect. The Fe/Cu ratio of the CuFe NPs was controllable by merely changing the loading amount of iron precursor concentration. The CuFe NPs could serve as a Fenton catalyst to convert hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into reactive oxygen species (ROS), while the superparamagnetic properties also suggest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) potential. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved MB photosensitizer could strongly adsorb onto the surface of CuFe NPs to facilitate the drug delivery into cells and improve the photodynamic therapy at 660 nm via significant generation of singlet oxygen species, leading to enhanced cancer cell-damaging efficacy. An MTT (thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide) assay proved the low cytotoxicity of the CuFe NPs to cervical cancer cells (HeLa cells), namely above 80% at 25 ppm of the sample dose. A slight dissolution of Cu and Fe ions from the CuFe NPs in an acidic environment was obtained, providing direct evidence for CuFe NPs being degradable without the risk of long-term retention in the body. Moreover, the tremendous photo-to-thermal conversion of CuFe NPs was examined, which might be combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) for promising development in the depletion of cancer cells after a single pulse of deep-red light irradiation at high laser power.

Intelligent MoS2-CuO heterostructures with multiplexed imaging and remarkably enhanced antitumor efficacy via synergetic photothermal therapy/ chemodynamic therapy/ immunotherapy

Rational design of biocompatible nanoplatforms simultaneously realizing multimodal imaging and therapeutic functions is meaningful to cancer treatment. Herein, the MoS₂-CuO heteronanocomposites are designed by integrating semiconductor CuO and flower-like MoS₂ via a two-step hydrothermal method. After loading bovine serum albumin (BSA) and immunoadjuvant imiquimod (R837), the obtained MoS₂-CuO@BSA/R837 (MCBR) nanoplatforms realize the excellent computed tomography/infrared thermal/magnetic resonance multi-mode bioimaging as well as significantly enhanced antitumor efficacy of synergetic photothermal therapy (PTT)/chemodynamic therapy (CDT)/immunotherapy. In this nanoplatform, the semiconductor CuO exhibits peroxidase-like activity, which can react with over-expressed H₂O₂ in tumor microenvironment (TME) to generate OH for CDT via Haber-Weiss and Fenton-like reactions. And this process can be further accelerated by the generated heat of MoS₂ under 808 nm laser irradiation. More importantly, the obtained multifunctional MCBR nanoplatforms under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation would destroy tumor cells to generate tumor associated antigens (TAAs), which combine with R837 as an adjuvant to trigger strong antitumor immune responses for effectively eliminating primary tumors and metastatic tumors.

CuGeO3 Nanoparticles: An Efficient Photothermal Theragnosis Agent for CT Imaging-Guided Photothermal Therapy of Cancers

The photothermal agents have been widely developed due to the minimally invasive treatment for targeted tumor photothermal therapy, which is considered to have great potential for antitumor bioapplications. The development of multifunctional photothermal agents is extremely challenging. This work presents a novel photothermal theragnosis agent, i.e., CuGeO3 nanoparticles (CGO NPs), showing intense absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) window and excellent ability of CT imaging. Due to the strong NIR absorption, CGO NPs exhibit excellent photothermal effect with a photothermal conversion efficiency of 59.4%. Moreover, because of the high X-ray attenuation coefficient of germanium, the CGO NPs have a great potential of CT imaging diagnosis in clinical application. Additionally, the CGO NPs show negligible cytotoxicity in vitro and in vivo, indicating that it can be served as an outstanding contrast and anticancer agent in a biosafe way. Our work opens the way for the development of bimetallic copper-based oxides used in photothermal diagnostic agents for cancer treatment.

Recent Advances on Rare Earth Upconversion Nanomaterials for Combined Tumor Near-Infrared Photoimmunotherapy

Cancer has been threatening the safety of human life. In order to treat cancer, many methods have been developed to treat tumor, such as traditional therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, as well as new strategies like photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and other emerging therapies. Although there are so many ways to treat tumors, these methods all face the dilemma that they are incapable to cope with metastasis and recurrence of tumors. The emergence of immunotherapy has given the hope to conquer the challenge. Immunotherapy is to use the body's own immune system to stimulate and maintain a systemic immune response to form immunological memory, resist the metastasis and recurrence of tumors. At the same time, immunotherapy can combine with other treatments to exhibit excellent antitumor effects. Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) can convert near-infrared (NIR) light into ultraviolet and visible light, thus have good performance in bioimaging and NIR triggered phototherapy. In this review paper, we summarize the design, fabrication, and application of UCNPs-based NIR photoimmunotherapy for combined cancer treatment, as well as put forward the prospect of future development.

The Coppery Age: Copper (Cu)-Involved Nanotheranostics

As an essential trace element in the human body, transitional metal copper (Cu) ions are the bioactive components within the body featuring dedicated biological effects such as promoting angiogenesis and influencing lipid/glucose metabolism. The recent substantial advances of nanotechnology and nanomedicine promote the emerging of distinctive Cu-involved biomaterial nanoplatforms with intriguing theranostic performances in biomedicine, which are originated from the biological effects of Cu species and the physiochemical attributes of Cu-composed nanoparticles. Based on the very-recent significant progresses of Cu-involved nanotheranostics, this work highlights and discusses the principles, progresses, and prospects on the elaborate design and rational construction of Cu-composed functional nanoplatforms for a diverse array of biomedical applications, including photonic nanomedicine, catalytic nanotherapeutics, antibacteria, accelerated tissue regeneration, and bioimaging. The engineering of Cu-based nanocomposites for synergistic nanotherapeutics is also exemplified, followed by revealing their intrinsic biological effects and biosafety for revolutionizing their clinical translation. Finally, the underlying critical concerns, unresolved hurdles, and future prospects on their clinical uses are analyzed and an outlook is provided. By entering the "Copper Age," these Cu-involved nanotherapeutic modalities are expected to find more broad biomedical applications in preclinical and clinical phases, despite the current research and developments still being in infancy.

Nano-Sized Iron Sulfide: Structure, Synthesis, Properties, and Biomedical Applications

Nano-sized iron sulfides have attracted intense research interest due to the variety of their types, structures, and physicochemical properties. In particular, nano-sized iron sulfides exhibit enzyme-like activity by mimicking natural enzymes that depend on an iron-sulfur cluster as cofactor, extending their potential for applications in biomedicine. The present review principally summarizes the synthesis, properties and applications in biomedical fields, demonstrating that nano-sized iron sulfides have considerable potential for improving human health and quality of life.

Delivery of Platinum(IV) Prodrugs via Bi2Te3 Nanoparticles for Photothermal-Chemotherapy and Photothermal/Photoacoustic Imaging

Combinational administration of photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy (CT) shows great potential in improving the efficiency of tumor treatment. Herein, we designed a novel nanocomposite Pt@Bi₂Te₃ composed of bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) nanoparticles and platinum(IV) prodrugs (Pt) for PTT-CT combination therapy. The obtained Bi₂Te₃ was synthesized by a simple solvothermal method and modified by polyethylene glycol, which exhibited excellent photothermal (PT) efficiency and stability and could also serve as a bimodal bioimaging contrast agent in PT and photoacoustic (PA) imaging. In vitro experiment results showed that the nanocomposite Pt@Bi₂Te₃ could effectively increase the uptake of platinum in cancer cells, which could kill tumor cells through the combined effect of PTT and CT. Furthermore, combination therapy of cancer in vivo was achieved with obvious tumor-growth inhibition without inducing observed side effects. We revealed the great potential of Bi₂Te₃ nanocomposites in increasing therapeutic efficiency by PTT-CT therapy and PA-PT imaging.

AgFeS2 nanoparticles as a novel photothermal platform for effective artery stenosis therapy

Ternary I-III-VI2 semiconductors usually have narrow band gaps and large absorption coefficients arising from the unique characteristics of their outer-d valence electrons, which are intimately connected with the photothermal conversion properties. AgFeS2 is known as one such material that has the potential to absorb near-infrared light. In this work, we utilized density functional theory (DFT) calculations to evaluate the electronic structure and optical absorption properties of AgFeS2. Strong absorptions were predicted over a wide Vis-NIR region due to the localized 3d electron of Fe atoms, which agree quite well with the UV-Vis-NIR spectra measured by experiment. The as-prepared AgFeS2 nanoparticles were then modified with mPEG-DSPE, an efficient photothermal agent for artery stenosis therapy. Its photothermal conversion effect has been systematically studied, indicating the potential for causing the hyperthermia of macrophages, an essential part of the artery inflammation response. More importantly, both in vitro cell experiments and in vivo mouse-model studies show that the induction of hyperthermia in artery stenosis by using AgFeS2 nanoparticles is safe and effective when injected at a very low concentration. This study provides a novel photothermal platform derived from the inheritability of bandgap structure and also promotes the process of artery inflammation and stenosis therapy.

Au2Pt-PEG-Ce6 nanoformulation with dual nanozyme activities for synergistic chemodynamic therapy / phototherapy

Although synergistic therapy for tumors has displayed significant promise for effective treatment of cancer, developing a simple and effective strategy to build a multi-functional nanoplatform is still a huge challenge. By virtue of the characteristics of tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia, slight acidity and H₂O₂ overexpression, Au₂Pt-PEG-Ce6 nanoformulation is constructed for collaborative chemodynamic/phototherapy of tumors. Specifically, the Au₂Pt nanozymes with multiple functions are synthesized in one step at room temperature. The photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) is covalently linked to Au₂Pt nanozymes for photodynamic therapy (PDT). Interestingly, the Au₂Pt nanozymes possess catalase- and peroxidase-like activities simultaneously, which not only can generate O₂ for relaxation of tumor hypoxia and enhancement of PDT efficiency but also can produce ∙OH for chemodynamic therapy (CDT). In addition, the high photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 31.5%) of Au₂Pt-PEG-Ce6 nanoformulation provides the possibility for photoacoustic (PA) and photothermal (PT) imaging guided photothermal therapy (PTT). Moreover, the presence of high-Z elements (Au and Pt) in Au₂Pt-PEG-Ce6 nanoformulation endows it with the ability to act as an X-ray computed tomography (CT) imaging contrast agent. All in all, the Au₂Pt-PEG-Ce6 exhibits great potential in multimodal imaging-guided synergistic PTT/PDT/CDT with remarkably tumor specificity and enhanced therapy.

Manganese Oxide Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Properties, and Theranostic Applications

Despite the comprehensive applications in bioimaging, biosensing, drug/gene delivery, and tumor therapy of manganese oxide nanomaterials (MONs including MnO₂ , MnO, Mn₂ O₃ , Mn₃ O₄ , and MnO_x ) and their derivatives, a review article focusing on MON-based nanoplatforms has not been reported yet. Herein, the representative progresses of MONs on synthesis, heterogene, properties, surface modification, toxicity, imaging, biodetection, and therapy are mainly introduced. First, five kinds of primary synthetic methods of MONs are presented, including thermal decomposition method, exfoliation strategy, permanganates reduction method, adsorption-oxidation method, and hydro/solvothermal. Second, the preparations of hollow MONs and MON-based composite materials are summarized specially. Then, the chemical properties, surface modification, and toxicity of MONs are discussed. Next, the diagnostic applications including imaging and sensing are outlined. Finally, some representative rational designs of MONs in photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, chemodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, radiotherapy, magnetic hyperthermia, chemotherapy, gene therapy, starvation therapy, ferroptosis, immunotherapy, and various combination therapy are highlighted.

Decoration of upconversion nanocrystals with metal sulfide quantum dots by a universal in situ controlled growth strategy

Conjugating transition-metal sulfide quantum dots and upconversion nanocrystals (UCNCs) has aroused widespread concern due to enhanced physical and chemical properties in contrast to only their simple sum. However, the synthesis of such hybrid nanoparticles by a universal in situ growth strategy has been scarcely reported so far. Herein, we developed a facile approach to functionalize NaYF₄:Yb/Er with chitosan (NaYF₄:Yb/Er@CS), which not only could improve the hydrophilicity of NaYF₄:Yb/Er, but also can form stable chelates with transition-metal ions. Then, ultrasmall metal sulfide (Mⁿ⁺S, M = Ag, Cu, Cd) quantum dots (QDs) can be conjugated homogeneously on the surface of NaYF₄:Yb/Er@CS. Taking Ag₂S as an example, the growth behavior of Ag₂S QDs on the surface of NaYF₄:Yb/Er@CS was studied specifically. The influence of the Ag : Y ratio, S : Ag ratio, pH value, reaction time and reaction temperature on the growth behavior of Ag₂S on the surface of NaYF₄:Yb/Er@CS was investigated systematically. Meanwhile, this innovative strategy is also suitable for the growth of ultrasmall QDs in various shapes, including plates, spheres and rods. The resultant NaYF₄:Yb/Er@CS@Ag₂S system possesses both upconversion luminescence (UCL) properties of NaYF₄:Yb/Er and a good photothermal conversion effect of Ag₂S, and is a promising candidate for UCL imaging guided PTT of cancer.

Self-assembled CeVO4/Au heterojunction nanocrystals for photothermal/photoacoustic bimodal imaging-guided phototherapy

Phototherapy, including photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), has attracted great attention because it can effectively inhibit the proliferation and propagation of cancer cells. Recently, heterojunction nanomaterials have shown tremendous application value in the field of biological medicine. In this work, the CeVO4/Au heterojunction nanocrystals (NCs) are designed for photothermal/photoacoustic bimodal imaging-guided phototherapy. The as-synthesized hydrophobic oleic acid (OA)-stabilized CeVO4 nanosheets were modified with HS-PEG-OH for translating into hydrophilic ones, which can significantly improve their stability and biocompatibility. Subsequently, the plasmonic Au nanoparticles were in situ successfully deposited on the surface of HS-PEG-coated CeVO4 to form CeVO4/Au heterojunction NCs for improving the visible and near-infrared light absorption, which results in enhanced photothermal conversion performance and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation capacity. Thus, the CeVO4/Au can cause more severe damage to cancer cells than pure CeVO4 under NIR laser irradiation. Also, CeVO4/Au can provide distinct tumor contrast by photothermal/photoacoustic bimodal bioimaging. Our results demonstrate that CeVO4/Au NCs could be used as an effective theranostic anticancer agent for near-infrared (NIR) light-mediated PTT and PDT.

Recent advancement of imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) based nanoformulations for synergistic tumor therapy

As a new kind of porous material, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-8) are built from zinc ions and 2-methylimidazolate and possess unique merits including high porosity, good structural regularity and tunability, adjustable surface functionality and intrinsic pH induced biodegradability. These advantages endow ZIF-8 with multiple functionalities and stimuli-responsive controlled release of loaded payloads by endogenous or exogenous means. In this review, we will summarize the recent advancement of ZIF-8 as nanocarriers for the loading of various molecules including chemotherapeutic drugs, photosensitizers, photothermal agents, and proteins to fabricate multifunctional nanocomposites for synergistic cancer therapy. In addition, the challenges and future developments in this area will be highlighted.

Plasmonic Pt Superstructures with Boosted Near-Infrared Absorption and Photothermal Conversion Efficiency in the Second Biowindow for Cancer Therapy

Photothermal therapy triggered by near-infrared light in the second biowindow (NIR-II) has attracted extensive interest owing to its deeper penetration depth of biological tissue, lower photon scattering, and higher maximum permissible exposure. In spite of noble metals showing great potential as the photothermal agents due to the tunable localized surface plasmon resonance, the biological applications of platinum are rarely explored. Herein, a monocomponent hollow Pt nanoframe ("Pt Spirals"), whose superstructure is assembled with three levels (3D frame, 2D layered shells, and 1D nanowires), is reported. Pt Spirals exhibit outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency (52.5%) and molar extinction coefficients (228.7 m² mol^-1 ) in NIR-II, which are much higher than those of solid Pt cubes. Simulations indicate that the unique superstructure can be a significant cause for improving both adsorption and the photothermal effect simultaneously in NIR-II. The excellent photothermal effect is achieved and subsequently verified in in vitro and in vivo experiments, along with superb heat-resistance properties, excellent photostability, and a prominent effect on computed tomography (CT) imaging, demonstrating that Pt Spirals are promising as effective theranostic platforms for CT imaging-guided photothermal therapy.

A highly active (102) surface-induced rapid degradation of a CuS nanotheranostic platform for in situ T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging-guided synergistic therapy

Polyvinylpyrrolidone-modified CuS nanocrystals (CuS NCs) with high photothermal conversion efficiency (46%) and pH and near-infrared (NIR) light-triggered degradation properties are a promising nanotheranostic platform for in situ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided synergistic photothermal and photodynamic therapy. On the one hand, the (102) surface of CuS NCs has a small bandgap based on density functional theory, which leads to high photothermal conversion efficiency. On the other hand, the S vacancy formation energy of the (102) surface is favourable. On entry into tumor cells through endocytosis, the S^2- ions on the (102) surface of CuS NCs can be easily oxidized under the tumor microenvironment and 808 nm laser irradiation; then, a large amount of Cu⁺ ions can be released from CuS NCs and accelerate the degradation of nanocrystals. Cu⁺ ions can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) under the tumor microenvironment and 808 nm laser irradiation. Meanwhile, the oxidation product Cu²⁺ ions can be generated from the oxidized Cu⁺ ions and applied for in situ T₁-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Moreover, the biodegradable CuS NCs possess a high tumor uptake and can be rapidly excreted with a low long-term retention/toxicity. Therefore, degradable and multifunctional CuS NCs are a safe and efficient candidate for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

One-pot synthesis of SiO2-coated Gd2(WO4)3:Yb3+/Ho3+ nanoparticles for simultaneous multi-imaging, temperature sensing and tumor inhibition

Rare earth ion-doped fluoride upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs), emerging as a novel class of probes and drug carriers, exhibit superior promise for bio-applications in diagnostics and treatment on account of their strong luminescence, fine biocompatibility, and high drug loading. However, the fine control and manipulation of particle size and the distribution of rare earth ion-doped oxides has remained an insurmountable challenge to date. In this work, we construct and synthesize silica-coated Gd2(WO4)3:Yb3+/Ho3+ nanoparticles by one-pot co-precipitation, with uniform distribution (∼130 nm) and enhanced yellow fluorescence. Particularly, the nanoparticles not only possess outstanding temperature sensing performance at biological temperatures in water by utilizing the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) method, but also allow a further serviceable contrast effect in vitro and in vivo based on the prominent T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) signal of Gd3+. Compared with cisplatin and platinum(iv) (DSP), the Gd2(WO4)3@SiO2 nanoparticles functionalized with DSP (Gd2(WO4)3@SiO2-Pt-PEG) exert higher lethality against CT26 cells and significantly inhibit the growth of tumors at the same concentration of Pt. This effect occurs through the greater level of cell endocytosis. The lethality value of the latter is 10 times higher than the former after the same length of time according to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) results. In short, the monodisperse and strongly fluorescent Gd2(WO4)3@SiO2-Pt-PEG nanoparticles are endowed with dual-mode imaging, temperature sensing and anticancer functions, which provide a significant guide for synthesis and bio-application of lanthanide ion-doped oxides.

Clearable Theranostic Platform with a pH-Independent Chemodynamic Therapy Enhancement Strategy for Synergetic Photothermal Tumor Therapy

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is an emerging field, which utilizes intratumoral iron-mediated Fenton chemistry for cancer therapy. However, the slightly acidic tumor environment is improper for the classical Fenton reaction, which is generally energetic in a narrow pH range (e.g., pH = 3-4). Herein, a kind of ultrasmall bovine serum albumin (BSA)-modified chalcopyrite nanoparticles (BSA-CuFeS₂ NPs) was synthesized via a facile aqueous biomineralization strategy, which shows high dispersity and biocompatibility. Interestingly, the obtained BSA-CuFeS₂ shows a pH-independent Fenton-like reaction, which could exert Fenton-like activity to efficiently generate ^•OH under a weak acidic tumor environment. Combined with the extraordinarily high photothermal conversion (38.8%), BSA-CuFeS₂ shows the synergistic function of high photothermal therapy (PTT) and enhanced CDT, that is, PTT/CDT. Importantly, such ultrasmall BSA-CuFeS₂ NPs measuring around 4.9 nm can be quickly cleared out of the body through kidneys and liver, thus effectively avoiding long-term toxicity and systemic toxicity. Moreover, BSA-CuFeS₂ NPs can act as an efficient T₂-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent to guide tumor ablation in vivo. This work offers a universal approach to boost production ^•OH by a pH-independent Fenton-like reaction strategy and achieves MRI-guided synergistic enhanced photothermal-CDT for highly efficient tumor treatment.

Cu-Fe-Se Ternary Nanosheet-Based Drug Delivery Carrier for Multimodal Imaging and Combined Chemo/Photothermal Therapy of Cancer

Ternary transition-metal chalcogenide nanosheets have shown great potential in diverse applications owing to their intrinsically amazing properties with a broad tunable window. Direct preparation of water-soluble and biocompatible ternary chalcogenide nanosheets for theranostic application remains a challenge. In this article, we prepared Cu-Fe-Se nanosheets (CFS NSs) in an aqueous solution under ambient conditions by a sequential coprecipitation method. They were functionalized with anticancer drug doxorubin (CFS@DOX) through electrostatic interactions and labeled with radioactive isotope ^99mTc through surface coordination effect. The resulting nanosheets have a size of 70 nm and a thickness of 5 nm, and can be well dispersed in water, phosphate-buffered saline, 10% fetal bovine serum, and 0.9% NaCl with an excellent colloidal stability. They also exhibit a high photothermal conversion efficiency of 78.9% for in vitro and in vivo photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy. The isotope-labeled nanosheets (^99mTc-CFS NSs) were used for single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography imaging to quantify their blood circulation time (∼4.7 h) and biodistributions in major organs, which follow an order of liver > bladder > lung > spleen > heart > kidney. The DOX-functionalized nanosheets (CFS@DOX) were used for chemotherapy of cancer and exhibited excellent anticancer efficacy. Our research shows the great promise of ternary metal chalcogenide nanosheets for combined imaging and therapy of cancer.

Effects of Chitosan Oligosaccharides on Human Blood Components

Chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) is known for its unique biological activities such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial activity, biological recognition, and immune enhancing effects, and thus continuous attracting many research interests in drug, food, cosmetics, biomaterials and tissue engineering fields. In comparison to its corresponding polymer, COS has much higher absorption profiles at the intestinal level, which results in permitting its quick access to the blood flow and potential contacting with blood components. However, the effects of COS on blood components remain unclear to date. Herein, two COS with different molecular weight (MW) were characterized by FTIR and ¹H NMR, and then their effects on human blood components, including red blood cells (RBCs) (hemolysis, deformability, and aggregation), coagulation system [activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), and the concentration of fibrinogen (Fib)], complement (C3a and C5a activation), and platelet (activation and aggregation), were comprehensively studied. In the case of RBCs, COS exhibited a low risk of hemolysis in a dose and molecular weight dependent manner and the irreversible aggregation was observed in their high concentration. For coagulation system, COS has a mild anticoagulation activity through blocking the intrinsic coagulation pathway. In addition, COS showed no effect on complement activation in C3a and C5a and on platelet activation while inhibition of platelet aggregation was evident. Finally, the mechanism that effects of COS on blood components was discussed and proposed.

Sub-10 nm Cu5FeS4 cube for magnetic resonance imaging-guided photothermal therapy of cancer

BACKGROUND

Facile synthesis and small size theranostic agents have shown great potential for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

PURPOSE

A ternary compound (Cu5FeS4), Fe doped copper sulfide, with novel magnetic properties and strong near-infrared absorption was prepared for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging guided photothermal therapy of cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Firstly, the capability of magnetic resonance imaging based on the novel magnetic properties and the photothermal performance due to the strong near-infrared absorption was investigated in vitro. Then, the magnetic resonance imaging guided photothermal therapy for 4T1 tumor-bearing mouse was carried out.

RESULTS

The Cu5FeS4 cube with good T1-weighted MRI, excellent photothermal performance and low cytotoxicity has been investigated. More importantly, the T1-weighted MRI for 4T1 tumor-bearing mouse will get the best contrast effect at tumor site after 8 h of intravenous injection of Cu5FeS4 cube. Under the guidance of the T1-weighted MRI, the PTT was carried out at 8 h after intravenous injection of Cu5FeS4 cube and only the group combined intravenous administration of Cu5FeS4 cube and laser irradiation nearly cured the tumor after 14 days.

CONCLUSION

Our study not only provides a new material for personalized treatment of tumors, but also further promotes potential applications of the cancer theranostic agents.

pH- and Enzyme-Sensitive IR820-Paclitaxel Conjugate Self-Assembled Nanovehicles for Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging-Guided Chemo-Photothermal Therapy

The short lifetime and easy quick elimination of the near-infrared (NIR) dye new indocyanine green (IR820) in the body restrict its practical application as a photothermal agent in cancer therapy. Meanwhile, the drawback of poor water solubility of the chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel (PTX) largely restricts its clinical applications. Herein, we, for the first time, combined IR820 and PTX in an "all-in-one" fluorescence imaging-guided chemo-photothermal therapy (PTT) platform by a rational design of a novel pH- and enzyme-sensitive IR820-PTX conjugate assembly. Specifically, the IR820-PTX conjugate nanoparticles exhibit an extremely high therapeutic agent content (IR820 and PTX, 95.7%). Besides the good stability in bloodstream, the IR820-PTX nanoparticles can target tumors for high accumulation via the enhanced permeation and retention effect. Particularly, our IR820-PTX nanoparticles simultaneously solve the obstacles of PTX poor solubility and the short lifetime of IR820 for cancer therapy. The simultaneous release of the free drug and dye can efficiently kill tumor cells by the combination of PTT and chemotherapy via NIR irradiation. Furthermore, the combined therapy can be imaging-guided by measuring the NIR fluorescence imaging resulting from the IR820 component. Therefore, our rationally designed pH- and enzyme-sensitive IR820-PTX conjugate nanoparticles provide an alternative "all-in-one" option for an efficient combinational dual-therapy and imaging.

Highly monodisperse beta-cyclodextrin-covellite nanoparticles for efficient photothermal and chemotherapy

High quality covellite phase copper sulfide nanoparticles with excellent photothermal performance were obtained using an easy, non-hot injection method. Then, colloidal stable drug delivery vehicles were fabricated with an amphiphilic polymer and covalently linked with beta-cyclodextrin, which allows the integration of multiple target ligands and drugs, thus providing a versatile nano-platform for efficient photothermal and chemotherapy.

Gadolinium Metallofullerene-Polypyrrole Nanoparticles for Activatable Dual-Modal Imaging-Guided Photothermal Therapy

Accurate diagnosis of tumor is promising to guide photothermal therapy (PTT) for efficacious tumor ablation with minimal damage to healthy tissues. Here, we report an activatable dual-modal imaging agent, which is based on PEGylated-gadolinium metallofullerene-polypyrrole nanoparticle (PEG-GMF-PPy NP) for imaging-guided PTT. A contrast agent (gadolinium metallofullerene, GMF) with excellent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performance and an ultra-pH-responsive polymer (PEG-PC7A) are successively modified to the surface of photothermal agent (PPy NP). The prepared PEG-GMF-PPy NPs show strong absorption in the near-infrared (NIR) region, so they can be utilized for photoacoustic imaging. Furthermore, in a tumor extracellular environment, the PEG-GMF-PPy NPs can achieve pH-enhanced MRI because of the hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic conversion of the PC7A. Upon accurate diagnosis-guided NIR laser irradiation, excellent tumor ablation effect is achieved. The results suggest that the PEG-GMF-PPy NPs are promising agents for activatable imaging-guided PTT.