Novel Cs-Based Upconversion Nanoparticles as Dual-Modal CT and UCL Imaging Agents for Chemo-Photothermal Synergistic Therapy

Cur@ZIF-8@BA nanomaterials with pH-responsive and photodynamic therapy properties promotes antimicrobial activity

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has emerged as a highly promising strategy for non-antibiotic treatment of infections due to its unique advantages in efficient bactericidal action and reduction of drug resistance. The natural photosensitizing properties of curcumin (Cur) are widely acknowledged; however, its limited bioavailability has impeded its practical application. In this study, we developed a nanomaterial called Cur@ZIF-8@BA by encapsulating Cur within ZIF-8 and modifying the surface with boric acid (BA). The Cur@ZIF-8@BA exhibits pH-responsive properties and enhances bacterial binding, thereby effectively promoting photodynamic therapy. Moreover, its antibacterial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and A. baumannii is significantly increased in the presence of light compared to a dark environment. The mechanism behind this may be that BA increases the affinity of Cur@ZIF-8@BA towards bacteria, and making released Zn2+ and BA from the nanomaterial increase bacterial cell membrane permeability. This facilitates efficient delivery of Cur into bacterial cells, resulting in generation of abundant reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent bactericidal activity. In conclusion, our prepared Cur@ZIF-8@BA holds great promise as a photodynamically mediated antimicrobial strategy.

Molecularly Targeted Lanthanide Nanoparticles for Cancer Theranostic Applications

Injectable colloidal solutions of lanthanide oxides (nanoparticles between 10 and 100 nm in size) have demonstrated high biocompatibility and no toxicity when the nanoparticulate units are functionalized with specific biomolecules that molecularly target various proteins in the tumor microenvironment. Among the proteins successfully targeted by functionalized lanthanide nanoparticles are folic receptors, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRP-R), prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), and integrins associated with tumor neovasculature. Lutetium, samarium, europium, holmium, and terbium, either as lanthanide oxide nanoparticles or as nanoparticles doped with lanthanide ions, have demonstrated their theranostic potential through their ability to generate molecular images by magnetic resonance, nuclear, optical, or computed tomography imaging. Likewise, photodynamic therapy, targeted radiotherapy (neutron-activated nanoparticles), drug delivery guidance, and image-guided tumor therapy are some examples of their potential therapeutic applications. This review provides an overview of cancer theranostics based on lanthanide nanoparticles coated with specific peptides, ligands, and proteins targeting the tumor microenvironment.

Developing a Hetero-Trinuclear Erbium(III)-Copper(II) Complex Based on Apoferritin: Targeted Photoacoustic Imaging and Multimodality Therapy of Tumor

For the integration of targeted diagnosis and treatment of tumor, we innovatively designed and synthesized a single-molecule hetero-multinuclear Er(III)-Cu(II) complex (ErCu2) and then constructed an ErCu2@apoferritin (AFt) nanoparticle (NP) delivery system. ErCu2 and ErCu2@AFt NPs not only provided an evident photoacoustic imaging (PAI) signal of the tumor but also effectively inhibited tumor growth by integrating photothermal therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. ErCu2@AFt NPs improved the targeting ability and decreased the systemic toxicity of ErCu2 in vivo. Furthermore, we confirmed that ErCu2 and ErCu2@AFt NPs inhibited tumor growth by inducing apoptosis and autophagy of tumor cells and activating the immune system. The study not only provides a novel strategy to develop therapeutic metal agents but also reveals their potential for targeted accurate diagnosis and multimodality therapy of cancer.

Recent advances of lanthanide nanomaterials in Tumor NIR fluorescence detection and treatment

Lanthanide nanomaterials have garnered significant attention from researchers among the main near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanomaterials due to their excellent chemical and fluorescence stability, narrow emission band, adjustable luminescence color, and long lifetime. In recent years, with the preparation, functional modification, and fluorescence improvement of lanthanide materials, great progress has been made in their application in the biomedical field. This review focuses on the latest progress of lanthanide nanomaterials in tumor diagnosis and treatment, as well as the interaction mechanism between fluorescence and biological tissues. We introduce a set of efficient strategies for improving the fluorescence properties of lanthanide nanomaterials and discuss some representative in-depth research work in detail, showcasing their superiority in early detection of ultra-small tumors, phototherapy, and real-time guidance for surgical resection. However, lanthanide nanomaterials have only realized a portion of their potential in tumor applications so far. Therefore, we discuss promising methods for further improving the performance of lanthanide nanomaterials and their future development directions.

18F-5-FPN: A Specific Probe for Monitoring Photothermal Therapy Response in Malignant Melanoma

Previously, we successfully synthesized a ¹⁸F-labeled positron-emission tomography (PET) tracer, termed ¹⁸F-5-fluoro-N-(2-[diethylamino]ethyl)picolinamide (¹⁸F-5-FPN), with high specificity for melanin. In this study, we sought to investigate the value of ¹⁸F-5-FPN in assessing the response to photothermal therapy (PTT) in melanoma via comparison with ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸F-FDG) to reveal an early response, recognize early recurrence, and distinguish the inflammatory response during the treatment. B16F10, inflammatory, and MDA-MB-231 models were subjected to ¹⁸F-FDG PET and ¹⁸F-5-FPN PET static acquisitions. We compared quantitative data to assess the specificity of different agents for different diseases. B16F10 and MDA-MB-231subcutaneous tumor models were irradiated with an 808 nm laser for PTT. Their survival was documented to observe the efficacy of and response to PTT, using ¹⁸F-5-FPN and ¹⁸F-FDG PET. ¹⁸F-5-FPN accumulated in B16F10 cell xenografts only, whereas ¹⁸F-FDG accumulated in all three models. Melanin in B16F10 cell xenografts successfully transformed the optical energy into heat. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining at 24 h revealed destruction and extensive necrosis of tumor tissue. PTT rapidly inhibited the growth of B16F10 cell xenografts and prolonged the median survival. The mean tumor uptakes of ¹⁸F-5-FPN on day 2 (7.52 ± 3.65 %ID/g) and day 6 (10.22 ± 6.00 %ID/g) were much lower than that before treatment (18.33 ± 4.98 %ID/g, p < 0.01). However, a significant difference in ¹⁸F-FDG uptakes was not found between day 1 after PTT and before treatment. Compared with ¹⁸F-FDG, ¹⁸F-5-FPN PET could estimate PTT efficacy in melanoma, monitor minimal recurrence, and distinguish melanoma from inflammation and other carcinoma types, thanks to its high affinity to melanin. ¹⁸F-5-FPN may provide a new approach for precise and accurate evaluation of response, timely management of therapeutic regimens, and sensitive follow-up.

Research Progress of Nanomedicine-Based Mild Photothermal Therapy in Tumor

With the booming development of nanomedicine, mild photothermal therapy (mPTT, 42-45°C) has exhibited promising potential in tumor therapy. Compared with traditional PTT (>50°C), mPTT has less side effects and better biological effects conducive to tumor treatment, such as loosening the dense structure in tumor tissues, enhancing blood perfusion, and improving the immunosuppressive microenvironment. However, such a relatively low temperature cannot allow mPTT to completely eradicate tumors, and therefore, substantial efforts have been conducted to optimize the application of mPTT in tumor therapy. This review extensively summarizes the latest advances of mPTT, including two sections: (1) taking mPTT as a leading role to maximize its effect by blocking the cell defense mechanisms, and (2) regarding mPTT as a supporting role to assist other therapies to achieve synergistic antitumor curative effect. Meanwhile, the special characteristics and imaging capabilities of nanoplatforms applied in various therapies are discussed. At last, this paper puts forward the bottlenecks and challenges in the current research path of mPTT, and possible solutions and research directions in future are proposed correspondingly.

PDT-active upconversion nanoheaters for targeted imaging guided combinatorial cancer phototherapies with low-power single NIR excitation

A versatile nanoformulation is designed by anchoring human transferrin protein (Tf) on fluoromagnetic upconverting nanoheaters, NaGdF₄:Yb,Er (UCNP), loaded with Rose Bengal (RB), for multimodal imaging guided synergistic photothermal (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) at the targeted tumor site. The NIR excitation of the UCNP-RB Forster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) pair results in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation for PDT, whereas the non-radiative transitions in Er result in the heat required for PTT. The intravenously injected theranostic agent (UCNP@Tf-RB) enabled; (1) combinatorial PTT and PDT of 4T1 tumors with minimal systemic toxicity, (2) dual targeted (passive and active) tumor accumulation, (3) dual-modal imaging (MRI/photothermal), and, (4) excellent stability and biocompatibility. The in vitro therapy data corroborates the MRI findings that Tf conjugation resulted in actively targeted tumor accumulation via over-expressed transferrin receptors (TfR) on 4T1 cells. Real-time photothermal imaging enabled visualization of the tumor while receiving the therapy. The UCNP@Tf-RB, for synergistic PTT-PDT, and UCNP@Tf, for PTT only, caused rapid suppression of tumor with a tumor-growth inhibition index (TGII) of ~0.91, and 0.79, respectively. Histopathological examination demonstrated minimal damage to non-targeted tissues and caused significant damage to the tumor. This theranostic methodology enhances anti-cancer therapeutic efficiency, and announces the potential for pre-clinical cancer therapy.

Nanotechnology-Based Combinatorial Anti-Glioblastoma Therapies: Moving from Terminal to Treatable

Aggressive glioblastoma (GBM) has no known treatment as a primary brain tumor. Since the cancer is so heterogeneous, an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) exists, and the blood–brain barrier (BBB) prevents chemotherapeutic chemicals from reaching the central nervous system (CNS), therapeutic success for GBM has been restricted. Drug delivery based on nanocarriers and nanotechnology has the potential to be a handy tool in the continuing effort to combat the challenges of treating GBM. There are various new therapies being tested to extend survival time. Maximizing therapeutic effectiveness necessitates using many treatment modalities at once. In the fight against GBM, combination treatments outperform individual ones. Combination therapies may be enhanced by using nanotechnology-based delivery techniques. Nano-chemotherapy, nano-chemotherapy–radiation, nano-chemotherapy–phototherapy, and nano-chemotherapy–immunotherapy for GBM are the focus of the current review to shed light on the current status of innovative designs.

Rare-earth based materials: an effective toolbox for brain imaging, therapy, monitoring and neuromodulation

Brain diseases, including tumors and neurodegenerative disorders, are among the most serious health problems. Non-invasively high-resolution imaging methods are required to gain anatomical structures and information of the brain. In addition, efficient diagnosis technology is also needed to treat brain disease. Rare-earth based materials possess unique optical properties, superior magnetism, and high X-ray absorption abilities, enabling high-resolution imaging of the brain through magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography imaging, and fluorescence imaging technologies. In addition, rare-earth based materials can be used to detect, treat, and regulate of brain diseases through fine modulation of their structures and functions. Importantly, rare-earth based materials coupled with biomolecules such as antibodies, peptides, and drugs can overcome the blood-brain barrier and be used for targeted treatment. Herein, this review highlights the rational design and application of rare-earth based materials in brain imaging, therapy, monitoring, and neuromodulation. Furthermore, the development prospect of rare-earth based materials is briefly introduced.

Design and Application of Near-Infrared Nanomaterial-Liposome Hybrid Nanocarriers for Cancer Photothermal Therapy

Liposomes are attractive carriers for targeted and controlled drug delivery receiving increasing attention in cancer photothermal therapy. However, the field of creating near-infrared nanomaterial-liposome hybrid nanocarriers (NIRN-Lips) is relatively little understood. The hybrid nanocarriers combine the dual superiority of nanomaterials and liposomes, with more stable particles, enhanced photoluminescence, higher tumor permeability, better tumor-targeted drug delivery, stimulus-responsive drug release, and thus exhibiting better anti-tumor efficacy. Herein, this review covers the liposomes supported various types of near-infrared nanomaterials, including gold-based nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials, and semiconductor quantum dots. Specifically, the NIRN-Lips are described in terms of their feature, synthesis, and drug-release mechanism. The design considerations of NIRN-Lips are highlighted. Further, we briefly introduced the photothermal conversion mechanism of NIRNs and the cell death mechanism induced by photothermal therapy. Subsequently, we provided a brief conclusion of NIRNs-Lips applied in cancer photothermal therapy. Finally, we discussed a synopsis of associated challenges and future perspectives for the applications of NIRN-Lips in cancer photothermal therapy.

Manipulating Intratumoral Fenton Chemistry for Enhanced Chemodynamic and Chemodynamic-Synergized Multimodal Therapy

Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) uses the tumor microenvironment-assisted intratumoral Fenton reaction for generating highly toxic hydroxyl free radicals (•OH) to achieve selective tumor treatment. However, the limited intratumoral Fenton reaction efficiency restricts the therapeutic efficacy of CDT. Recent years have witnessed the impressive development of various strategies to increase the efficiency of intratumoral Fenton reaction. The introduction of these reinforcement strategies can dramatically improve the treatment efficiency of CDT and further promote the development of enhanced CDT (ECDT)-based multimodal anticancer treatments. In this review, the authors systematically introduce these reinforcement strategies, from their basic working principles, reinforcement mechanisms to their representative clinical applications. Then, ECDT-based multimodal anticancer therapy is discussed, including how to integrate these emerging Fenton reinforcement strategies for accelerating the development of multimodal anticancer therapy, as well as the synergistic mechanisms of ECDT and other treatment methods. Eventually, future direction and challenges of ECDT and ECDT-based multimodal synergistic therapies are elaborated, highlighting the key scientific problems and unsolved technical bottlenecks to facilitate clinical translation.

NIR Laser Responsive Nanoparticles for Ovarian Cancer Targeted Combination Therapy with Dual-Modal Imaging Guidance

Purpose

Multifunctional nanoparticles with targeted therapeutic function and diagnostic-imaging are of great interest in the domain of precision therapy. NIR laser responsive nanoparticles (PLGA-PEG-FA encapsulating Bi₂S₃, PFP, and Dox (designed as FBPD NPs)) are synthesized for ovarian cancer targeted combination therapy with CT/PA dual-modal imaging guidance (PA: photoacoustic; CT: X-ray computed tomography).

Methods and Results

The FBPD NPS prepared by the double emulsification method revealed excellent dispersity, great stability, outstanding optical properties. The temperature of FBPD NPs increased rapidly after laser irradiation, inducing liquid-to-gas conversion of perfluoropentane (PFP), and promoting the release of Dox up to 86.7%. These FBPD NPs demonstrated their outstanding imaging capability for both PA and CT imaging both in vitro and in vivo, providing the potential for therapeutic guidance and monitoring. Assisted by folic acid, these nanoparticles could highly enrich in ovarian tumor tissue and the accumulation peaked at 3 h after intravenous administration. The desirable photothermal-conversion efficiency of the nanoparticles combined with chemotherapy achieved highly efficient therapy, which was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

We successfully constructed multifunctional theranostic FBPD NPs for highly efficient PTT/chemotherapy combined therapy with dual CT/PA imaging guidance/monitoring. The unique nanoparticles with multiple abilities pave an emerging way toward precise treatment of ovarian cancer.

Advances in Indocyanine Green-Based Codelivery Nanoplatforms for Combinatorial Therapy

Indocyanine green (ICG), a near-infrared (NIR) agent with an excellent imaging performance, has captivated enormous interest from researchers owing to its excellent therapeutic and imaging abilities. Although various nanoplatforms-based drug delivery systems (DDS) with the ability to overcome the clinical limitations of ICG has been reported, ICG-medicated conventional cancer diagnosis and photorelated therapies still lack in exhibiting the therapeutic efficacy, resulting in incomplete or partly tumor elimination. In the view of addressing these concerns, various DDSs have been engineered for the efficient codelivery of combined therapeutic agents with ICG, aiming to achieve promising therapeutic results due to multifunctional imaging-guided synergistic antitumor effects. In this article, we will systematically review currently available nanoplatforms based on polymers, inorganic, proteins, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), among others, for codelivery of ICG along with other therapeutic agents, providing a foundation for future clinical development of ICG. In addition, codelivery systems for ICG and different mechanism-based therapeutic agents will be illustrated. In summary, we conclude the review with the challenges and perspectives of ICG-based versatile nanoplatforms in detail.

Photothermal Therapy for the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Potential and Preclinical Challenges

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a very aggressive primary malignant brain tumor and finding effective therapies is a pharmaceutical challenge and an unmet medical need. Photothermal therapy may be a promising strategy for the treatment of GBM, as it allows the destruction of the tumor using heat as a non-chemical treatment for disease bypassing the GBM heterogeneity limitations, conventional drug resistance mechanisms and side effects on peripheral healthy tissues. However, its development is hampered by the distinctive features of this tumor. Photoabsorbing agents such as nanoparticles need to reach the tumor site at therapeutic concentrations, crossing the blood-brain barrier upon systemic administration. Subsequently, a near infrared light irradiating the head must cross multiple barriers to reach the tumor site without causing any local damage. Its power intensity needs to be within the safety limit and its penetration depth should be sufficient to induce deep and localized hyperthermia and achieve tumor destruction. To properly monitor the therapy, imaging techniques that can accurately measure the increase in temperature within the brain must be used. In this review, we report and discuss recent advances in nanoparticle-mediated plasmonic photothermal therapy for GBM treatment and discuss the preclinical challenges commonly faced by researchers to develop and test such systems.

"One stone, two birds": engineering 2-D ultrathin heterostructure nanosheet BiNS@NaLnF4 for dual-modal computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging guided, photonic synergetic theranostics

It is interesting yet challenging to design theranostic nanoplatforms for the accurate diagnosis and therapy of diseases; these nanoplatforms consist of single contrast-enhanced imaging or therapeutic agents, and they possess their own unique shortcomings that limit their widespread bio-medical applications. Therefore, designing a potential theranostic agent is an emerging approach for the synergistic diagnosis and therapeutics in bio-medical applications. Herein, a lanthanide-loaded (NaLnF₄) heterostructure BiOCl ultrathin nanosheet (BiNS@NaLnF₄) as a theranostic agent was synthesized facilely by a solvothermal protocol. BiNS@NaLnF₄ was employed as a multi-modal contrast agent for computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), showing a high-performance X-ray absorption contrast effect, an outstanding T₁-weighted imaging function result, good cytocompatibility and favorable in vivo effective imaging for CT. Notably, BiNS@NaLnF₄ was applied to achieve a satisfactory photon-thermal conversion efficiency (35.3%). Moreover, the special heterostructure barrier achieved increased utilization of electrons/holes, enhancing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under visible-light irradiation to further expand the therapeutic effect. Dramatically, visible light emission with the up-conversion law was employed to stimulate ROS after irradiation with a 980 nm laser. Simultaneously, the as-prepared BiNS@NaLnF₄ can be applied in photothermal/photodynamic therapy (PTT/PDT) investigation for tumor ablation. In summary, the results reveal that BiNS@NaLnF₄ is a potential multi-modal theranostic candidate, providing new insights for synergistic theranostics of tumors.

Hyperthermia treatment advances for brain tumors

Hyperthermia therapy (HT) of cancer is a well-known treatment approach. With the advent of new technologies, HT approaches are now important for the treatment of brain tumors. We review current clinical applications of HT in neuro-oncology and ongoing preclinical research aiming to advance HT approaches to clinical practice. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is currently the most widely utilized thermal ablation approach in clinical practice mainly for the treatment of recurrent or deep-seated tumors in the brain. Magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT), which relies on the use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) and alternating magnetic fields (AMFs), is a new quite promising HT treatment approach for brain tumors. Initial MHT clinical studies in combination with fractionated radiation therapy (RT) in patients have been completed in Europe with encouraging results. Another combination treatment with HT that warrants further investigation is immunotherapy. HT approaches for brain tumors will continue to a play an important role in neuro-oncology.

Designing Stimuli-Responsive Upconversion Nanoparticles that Exploit the Tumor Microenvironment

Tailoring personalized cancer nanomedicines demands detailed understanding of the tumor microenvironment. In recent years, smart upconversion nanoparticles with the ability to exploit the unique characteristics of the tumor microenvironment for precise targeting have been designed. To activate upconversion nanoparticles, various bio-physicochemical characteristics of the tumor microenvironment, namely, acidic pH, redox reactants, and hypoxia, are exploited. Stimuli-responsive upconversion nanoparticles also utilize the excessive presence of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), riboflavin, and Zn²⁺ in tumors. An overview of the design of stimulus-responsive upconversion nanoparticles that precisely target and respond to tumors via targeting the tumor microenvironment and intracellular signals is provided. Detailed understanding of the tumor microenvironment and the personalized design of upconversion nanoparticles will result in more effective clinical translation.

c(RGDfK)- and ZnTriMPyP-Bound Polymeric Nanocarriers for Tumor-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy

Active targeting strategies are currently being extensively investigated in order to enhance the selectivity of photodynamic therapy. The aim of the present research was to evaluate whether the external decoration of nanopolymeric carriers with targeting peptides could add more value to a photosensitizer formulation and increase antitumor therapeutic efficacy and selectivity. To this end, we assessed PLGA-PLA-PEG nanoparticles (NPs) covalently attached to a hydrophilic photosensitizer 5-[4-azidophenyl]-10,15,20-tri-(N-methyl-4-pyridinium)porphyrinato zinc (II) trichloride (ZnTriMPyP) and also to c(RGDfK) peptides, in order to target α_v β₃ integrin-expressing cells. In vitro phototoxicity investigations showed that the ZnTriMPyP-PLGA-PLA-PEG-c(RGDfK) nanosystem is effective at submicromolar concentrations, is devoid of dark toxicity, successfully targets α_v β₃ integrin-expressing cells and is 10-fold more potent than related nanosystems where the PS is occluded instead of covalently bound.

Combined-therapeutic strategies synergistically potentiate glioblastoma multiforme treatment via nanotechnology

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive and devastating brain tumor characterized by poor prognosis and high rates of recurrence. Numerous therapeutic strategies and delivery systems are developed to prolong the survival time. They exhibit enhanced therapeutic effects in animal models, whereas few of them is applied in clinical trials. Taking into account the drug-resistance and high recurrence of GBM, combined-therapeutic strategies are exploited to maximize therapeutic efficacy. The combined therapies demonstrate superior results than those of single therapies against GBM. The co-therapeutic agents, the timing of therapeutic strategies and the delivery systems greatly affect the overall outcomes. Herein, the current advances in combined therapies for glioblastoma via systemic administration are exhibited in this review. And we will discuss the pros and cons of these combined-therapeutic strategies via nanotechnology, and provide the guidance for developing rational delivery systems to optimize treatments against GBM and other malignancies in central nervous system.

Theranostic nanobubble encapsulating a plasmon-enhanced upconversion hybrid nanosystem for cancer therapy

Nanobubble (NB), which simultaneously enhances ultrasound (US) images and access therapeutic platforms, is required for future cancer treatment. Methods: We designed a theranostic agent for novel cancer treatment by using an NB-encapsulated hybrid nanosystem that can be monitored by US and fluorescent imaging and activated by near-infrared (NIR) light. The nanosystem was transported to the tumor through the enhanced permeability and retention effect. The hybrid nanosystem comprised upconversion nanoparticle (UCNP) and mesoporous silica-coated gold nanorod (AuNR@mS) with the photosensitizer merocyanine 540 to realize dual phototherapy. Results: With the NIR light-triggered, the luminous intensity of the UCNP was enhanced by doping holmium ion and emitted visible green and red lights at 540 and 660 nm. The high optical density state between the UCNP and AuNR@mS can induce plasmonic enhancement to improve the photothermal and photodynamic effects, resulting in cell death by apoptosis. The nanosystem showed excellent stability to avoid the aggregation of nanoparticles during the treatment. JC-1 dye was used as an indicator of mitochondrial membrane potential to identify the mechanism of cell death. The results of in vitro and in vivo analyses confirmed the curative effect of improved dual phototherapy. Conclusion: We developed and showed the therapeutic functions of a novel nanosystem with the combination of multiple theranostic nanoplatforms that can be triggered and activated by 808 nm NIR laser and US.

CsRe2F7@glass nanocomposites with efficient up-/down-conversion luminescence: from in situ nanocrystallization synthesis to multi-functional applications

Recently, lanthanide-doped luminescent materials have been widely studied and most investigations have been limited to rare-earth-containing fluorides formed with lighter alkali metals (Li, Na and K). Hence, it is important to understand the luminescence properties of cesium rare-earth fluorides. Herein, a novel type of multi-functional luminescent material, hexagonal β-CsRe2F7 (Re = La-Lu, Y, Sc) nanocrystals, is successfully prepared via in situ crystallization inside glass. Specifically, Yb/Er:β-CsLu2F7@glass exhibits a much higher upconversion quantum yield than Yb/Er:β-NaYF4@glass (about 6 times), which is believed to be one of the most efficient upconversion materials so far. Impressively, Er:CsYb2F7@glass shows a significant photothermal effect, which can produce variable upconversion emission colors induced by an incident 980 nm laser diode, enabling it to find practical application in novel/high-precision anti-counterfeiting. In addition, Ce:CsLu2F7@glass with a maximal photoluminescence quantum yield reaching 67% can yield intense X-ray excitable radioluminescence, which is even higher than that of a commercial Bi4Ge3O12 scintillator. Benefitting from the effective protection of robust oxide glass, lanthanide-doped CsRe2F7 nanocrystals show long-term stability in harsh environments, retaining near 100% luminescence after directly immersing them in water/oil for 30 days. It is expected that the present nanocomposites have potential applications in the fields of high-end upconversion anti-counterfeiting and high-energy radiation detection.

Plasmonic Photothermal Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications

Recent advances of plasmonic nanoparticles include fascinating developments in the fields of energy, catalyst chemistry, optics, biotechnology, and medicine. The plasmonic photothermal properties of metallic nanoparticles are of enormous interest in biomedical fields because of their strong and tunable optical response and the capability to manipulate the photothermal effect by an external light source. To date, most biomedical applications using photothermal nanoparticles have focused on photothermal therapy; however, to fully realize the potential of these particles for clinical and other applications, the fundamental properties of photothermal nanoparticles need to be better understood and controlled, and the photothermal effect-based diagnosis, treatment, and theranostics should be thoroughly explored. This Progress Report summarizes recent advances in the understanding and applications of plasmonic photothermal nanoparticles, particularly for sensing, imaging, therapy, and drug delivery, and discusses the future directions of these fields.

Light-activatable dual prodrug polymer nanoparticle for precise synergistic chemotherapy guided by drug-mediated computed tomography imaging

The synergistic efficacy and clinical application of light-responsive polymeric co-delivery systems are severely restricted by uncontrollable/imprecise drug loading, release, and adverse effects caused by the introduction of additional light-responsive molecules or contrast agents when diagnostic imaging is applied to guide therapy. Here, we report the design of a light-activatable dual prodrug polymer nanoparticle (DPP NP) for precise synergistic chemotherapy guided by drug-mediated computed tomography (DMCT) imaging without the introduction of any additional diagnostic imaging agent. DPP NP enables visible light-triggered prodrug polymer backbone cleavage and bioactive Pt(II) release in cancer cell/tumor site; the light-cleaved polymer fragments are further hydrolyzed to produce demethyl cantharidin (DMC). Notably, the drug loading ratio of Pt(IV) and DMC in DPP NP was fixed at an optimal value to achieve maximum synergistic cancer cell killing, which was kept even after cellular uptake, thereby resulting in enhanced synergistic antitumor efficacy both in vitro and in vivo. Because of the high content of the heavy metal Pt in the polymer chain, the spatial/temporal dynamic biodistribution as well as metabolism of DPP NP in vivo can be monitored by Pt DMCT imaging to guide the light irradiation parameters for optimized light-activatable synergistic chemotherapy. Guided by Pt DMCT imaging, DPP NP was able to achieve an improved light-activatable antitumor efficacy, with 75% tumors fully cured and low toxicity. The light-activatable DDP NP system exhibits tremendous potential as precise theranostic nanomedicine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The synergistic efficacy and clinical application of light-responsive polymeric co-delivery systems are severely restricted by uncontrollable/imprecise drug loading, delivery, and release, as well as adverse effects caused by the introduction of additional light-responsive molecules or contrast agents when diagnostic imaging is applied to guide therapy. Herein, we report the design of a light-activatable dual prodrug polymer nanoparticle (DPP NP) for precise synergistic chemotherapy guided by drug-mediated computed tomography imaging without the introduction of any additional diagnostic imaging agents. Notably, the drug loading ratio of Pt(II) and DMC in DPP NP was fixed at an optimal value to achieve maximum synergistic cancer cell killing, which was kept even after cellular uptake, thereby resulting in enhanced synergistic antitumor efficacy both in vitro and in vivo. The light-activatable DDP NP system exhibits tremendous potential as precise theranostic nanomedicine.

Near-Infrared-Triggered Photodynamic, Photothermal, and on Demand Chemotherapy by Multifunctional Upconversion Nanocomposite

In an attempt to integrate photodynamic therapy (PDT) with photothermal therapy and chemotherapy for enhanced anticancer activity, we have rationally synthesized a multifunctional upconversion nanoplatform using NaYF₄:Yb/Tm/Er/Fe nanoparticles (NPs) as the core and NaYbF₄:1% Tm as a shell. The as-synthesized core-shell upconversion (CSU) NPs exhibited diverse and enhanced photoluminescence emissions in a wide range (UV to NIR) consequent upon Fe³⁺ doping in the core and fabrication of an active shell. Subsequently, CSU was first decorated with titania NPs as photosensitizers. Next, the mesoporous silica (MS) shell loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) via a photocleavable Ru complex as the gating molecule was developed around titania-containing CSU. Finally, gold nanorods (GNRs) with localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at 800 nm were incorporated around the MS layer to obtain the multifunctional nanoplatform. We demonstrated that the UV, blue, and NIR emissions from the CSU produced ROS-mediated PDT through titania activation, induced DOX release through photocleavage of the Ru complex, and generated hyperthermia by LSPR activity of GNRs, respectively, upon a single NIR excitation through FRET. The therapeutic efficacy was validated on HeLa cell lines in vitro by various microscopic and biochemical studies under a significantly milder NIR irradiation and lower dosage of the nanoplatforms, which have been further demonstrated as diagnostic nanoprobes for cell imaging.

Designing of UCNPs@Bi@SiO2 Hybrid Theranostic Nanoplatforms for Simultaneous Multimodal Imaging and Photothermal Therapy

Herein, a novel multifunctional nanoplatform was designed toward multimodality imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT). It was found that Bi nanoparticles could grow in situ on the surface of NaYF₄:20%Yb,2%Er@NaYF₄:40%Yb@NaGdF₄ core-shell nanoparticles (labeled as UCNPs). In this structure, UCNPs were mainly employed as an upconversion luminescence (UCL) imaging agent, whereas the Bi nanoparticles worked as an effective CT imaging and photothermal agent. Importantly, a dense SiO₂ shell was employed to protect the Bi nanoparticles from oxidation, and it also endowed the nanoplatform with excellent hydrophilic ability. The effective UCL/CT imaging and PTT performances were emphasized by a series of in vivo experiments, which suggest that the integrated nanoplatform with imaging and therapy functions shows great promise in the biomedical field.

Lysosome-Assisted Mitochondrial Targeting Nanoprobe Based on Dye-Modified Upconversion Nanophosphors for Ratiometric Imaging of Mitochondrial Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a versatile modulator in mitochondria and involved in numerous diseases caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, many efforts have been made to develop fluorescent probes for mitochondrial H₂S detection. However, these cationic small molecule probes are inapplicable for in vivo imaging because of the shallow tissue penetration and poor biostability. Herein, a ratiometric upconversion luminescence nanoprobe with an acid-activated targeting strategy is developed for detecting and bioimaging of mitochondrial H₂S. The merocyanine triphenylamine-merocyanine (TPAMC)-modified upconversion nanophosphors, acting as the targeting and response component, are encapsulated into a pH-sensitive husk, composed of 1,2-distearoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine- N-[methoxy-(poly(ethylene glycol))-2000] (DSPE-PEG) and poly(l-histidine)- b-PEG, which improved the nanoprobe's stability during transport in vivo. Under lysosomal pH, the PEG shell is interrupted and the targeting sites are exposed to further attach to mitochondria. Taking advantage of the luminescence resonance energy transfer process between TPAMC and upconversion nanophosphors, the ratiometric detection of mitochondrial H₂S can be achieved with high selectivity and sensitivity. Cellular testing reveals the precise targeting to mitochondria via a lysosome delivery process. Importantly, the nanoprobe can be used for monitoring mitochondrial H₂S levels in living cells and colon cancer mouse models.

Artificially controlled degradable nanoparticles for contrast switch MRI and programmed cancer therapy

Background

Utilizing the permeability enhancement and irreversible biomolecule denaturation caused by hyperthermia, photothermal-chemo synergistic therapy has shown great potential in clinical cancer treatment.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to provide a novel controlled drug release method to improve the efficiency of photothermal-chemo synergistic therapy.

Patients and methods

HCT116 tumor-bearing mice were selected as modal for the study of cancer theranostics efficiency. The T2 to T1 magnetic resonance imaging contrast switch was studied in vivo. Analyses of the tumor growth of mice were carried out to evaluate the tumor therapy efficiency.

Results

We developed novel artificially controlled degradable Co₃O₄ nanoparticles and explored their potential in drug delivery/release. In the presence of ascorbic acid (AA), the designed nanomaterials can be degraded via a redox process and hence release the loaded drugs. Importantly, the AA, in the lack of l-gulonolactone oxidase, cannot be synthesized in the body of typical mammal including human, which suggested that the degradation process can be controlled artificially. Moreover, the obtained nanoparticles have outstanding photothermal conversion efficiency and their degradation can also result in an magnetic resonance imaging contrast enhancement switch from T₂ to T₁, which benefits the cancer theranostics.

Conclusion

Our results illustrated that the artificially controlled degradable nanoparticles can serve as an alternative candidate for controllable drug release as well as a platform for highly efficient photothermal-chemo synergistic cancer theranostics.

Mitochondria-Targeted Artificial "Nano-RBCs" for Amplified Synergistic Cancer Phototherapy by a Single NIR Irradiation

Phototherapy has emerged as a novel therapeutic modality for cancer treatment, but its low therapeutic efficacy severely hinders further extensive clinical translation and application. This study reports amplifying the phototherapeutic efficacy by constructing a near-infrared (NIR)-responsive multifunctional nanoplatform for synergistic cancer phototherapy by a single NIR irradiation, which can concurrently achieve mitochondria-targeting phototherapy, synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT)/photodynamic therapy (PDT), self-sufficient oxygen-augmented PDT, and multiple-imaging guidance/monitoring. Perfluorooctyl bromide based nanoliposomes are constructed for oxygen delivery into tumors, performing the functions of red blood cells (RBCs) for oxygen delivery ("Nano-RBC" nanosystem), which can alleviate the tumor hypoxia and enhance the PDT efficacy. The mitochondria-targeting performance for enhanced and synergistic PDT/PTT is demonstrated as assisted by nanoliposomes. In particular, these "Nano-RBCs" can also act as the contrast agents for concurrent computed tomography, photoacoustic, and fluorescence multiple imaging, providing the potential imaging capability for phototherapeutic guidance and monitoring. This provides a novel strategy to achieve high therapeutic efficacy of phototherapy by the rational design of multifunctional nanoplatforms with the unique performances of mitochondria targeting, synergistic PDT/PTT by a single NIR irradiation (808 nm), self-sufficient oxygen-augmented PDT, and multiple-imaging guidance/monitoring.

Three-dimensional angiography fused with CT/MRI for multimodal imaging of nanoparticles based on Ba4Yb3F17:Lu3+,Gd3+

Designing nanosized multi-modality contrast agents for high-resolution imaging is challenging since most agents are only useful for single-mode imaging. In this work, we successfully synthesized biocompatible polyethylene glycol (PEG-) and l-glutamine (GLN-) modified Ba4Yb3F17:Lu3+,Gd3+ nanoparticles (LNPs@PEG@GLN) that can be employed as a multi-modality contrast agent. Fluorescence dye-modified LNPs@PEG@GLN nanoparticles can be used for computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and fluorescence imaging (FI). They display high X-ray absorption, outstanding T2-weighted imaging capability, and good fluorescence uptake. Furthermore, LNPs@PEG@GLN enhances contrast efficiencies for different imaging modalities in vivo. Interestingly, LNPs@PEG@GLN is a promising agent for CT angiography. These nanoparticles could be a promising contrast agent for multi-modality imaging and diagnosing vascular diseases.

Polymer hybrid magnetic nanocapsules encapsulating IR820 and PTX for external magnetic field-guided tumor targeting and multifunctional theranostics

Developing multifunctional nanoparticle-based theranostic systems for personalized cancer diagnosis and treatment is highly desirable. Herein, a magnetic targeting theranostic nanocapsule (NC-SPIOs-IR820-PTX) was fabricated by hierarchically assembling superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIOs), cyanine dye (IR820) and chemotherapeutic compound of paclitaxel (PTX) with poly(ε-caprolactone-co-lactide)-b-poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(ε-caprolactone-co-lactide) (PCLA-PEG-PCLA). The nanocapsules exhibited high stability and biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo. The nanocomposites maintained their morphology in the cellular uptake and showed efficient tumoricidal activity. Most importantly, the external magnetic field could remotely control the nanocapsules and guide them to target tumors for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging. The synergistic therapeutic effects of NC-SPIOs-IR820-PTX with extra-magnetic field-induced tumor targeting ability have enhanced the co-therapy of photo-chemotherapy, resulting in significant tumor inhibition effects. Therefore, NC-SPIOs-IR820-PTX theranostics could be applied for magnetic field guided tumor targeting as well as multimodal MRI/NIR imaging, and imaging-guided combined therapy.

Tunable Surface Plasmon Resonance-Based Remote Actuation of Bimetallic Core-Shell Nanoparticle-Coated Stimuli Responsive Polymer for Switchable Chemo-Photothermal Synergistic Cancer Therapy

New dual light/temperature-responsive nanocarriers were synthesized using bimetallic plasmonic Au-Ag and Ag-Au nanoparticles (NPs) as cores of vehicles which subsequently functionalized with an upper critical solubility temperature-based poly acrylamide-co-acrylonitrile using reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer for spatiotemporally controlled chemo-photothermal synergistic cancer therapy. The bimetallic cores were assigned to sense wavelengths close to the localized surface plasmon resonance of monometallic NP shell to produce heat which not only can increase the surrounding temperature over the upper critical solubility temperature of polymer to open its valves and promote drug diffusion but also can kill cancerous cells through photothermal effects with increase in environment temperature by nearly 18°C after about 5 min radiation. The bimetallic NPs were shown good reusability even after 5 heating/cooling cycles, and the efficiency of both photothermal/chemotherapic procedures can be modulated by manipulating carrier's concentration and radiation time. In addition, the cytotoxicity of drug-free nanocarriers on normal L929 fibroblast and letrozole-loaded nanocarriers on MDAMB 231 breast-cancer cell lines were investigated in the absence/presence of laser radiation. Finally, the prepared nanocomposites were exhibited switchable on/off drug release in 2 buffered solutions (pH 5.5 and 7.4) with light actuation. The results revealed that the prepared nanocarriers can be served as efficient delivery platforms for remote-control chemophotothermal synergistic cancer therapy.

Porous gold nanocluster-decorated manganese monoxide nanocomposites for microenvironment-activatable MR/photoacoustic/CT tumor imaging

Stimuli-responsive nanoprobes that integrate multi-modal imaging capacities are highly desirable for precise tumor visualization. Herein, novel porous gold nanocluster-decorated manganese monoxide nanocomposites (MnO@Au NCs) were synthesized via a facile approach. The porous gold nanocluster layer was germinated on the surface of the as-prepared MnO@DMSA NPs through simple reduction of chloroauric acid in the presence of hydroxylamine hydrochloride. The MnO@Au NCs could be effectively internalized by tumor cells and slowly release Mn²⁺ ions within the acidic tumor microenvironment, improving the visualization of the tumor morphology. Benefitting from the porous architecture, the enhanced accessibility of Mn centers to proximal water molecules greatly augmented T₁-weighted MRI contrast capacity. Compared with the conventional Mn-based contrast agents, the porous Au nanoclusters on MnO@Au NCs could delay the release of Mn²⁺ ions and thus effectively prolong the diagnostic time window. The broad near-infrared absorption of MnO@Au NCs features a high photoacoustic imaging depth than that of conventional gold nanospheres. Moreover, the Au nanoclusters exhibited desirable X-ray computed tomography contrast and rapid clearance from the living body. The as-prepared MnO@Au NCs hold great potential for accurate tumor imaging.

Artemisinin-Loaded Mesoporous Nanoplatform for pH-Responsive Radical Generation Synergistic Tumor Theranostics

The development of novel and effective cancer treatments will greatly contribute to prolonging and improving patient lives. In this study, a multifunctional nanoplatform was designed and developed based on mesoporous NiO (mNiO) nanoparticles and terbium complexes as an artemisinin (ART) vehicle, a T₂-weighted contrast agent, and a luminescence imaging probe. mNiO is a novel pH-responsive material that can degrade and release nickel ions (Ni²⁺) in an acidic tumor microenvironment. The endoperoxide bridge bond in the structure of ART tends to react with Ni²⁺ to produce radicals that can kill tumor cells. On the basis of its excellent near-infrared absorbance, mNiO can also be considered as a novel photothermal conversion agent for cancer photothermal therapy (PTT). Compared with free ART or PTT only, this novel agent showed remarkably enhanced antitumor activity in cultured cells and in tumor mice models, owing to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment impelling synergistic therapeutic action. These results provide a novel way of using a promising natural drug-based nanoplatform for synergistic therapy of tumors.

Glutathione responsive micelles incorporated with semiconducting polymer dots and doxorubicin for cancer photothermal-chemotherapy

Nanoplatform integrated with photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemotherapy has been recognized a promising agent for enhancing cancer therapeutic outcomes, but still suffer from less controllability for optimizing their synergistic effects. We fabricated glutathione (GSH) responsive micelles incorporated with semiconducting polymer dots and doxorubicin (referred as SPDOX NPs) for combining PTT with chemotherapy to enhance cancer therapeutic efficiency. These micelles, with excellent water dispersibility, comprises of three distinct functional components: (1) the monomethoxy-poly(ethylene glycol)-S-S-hexadecyl (mPEG-S-S-C₁₆), which forms the micelles, can render hydrophobic substances water-soluble and improve the colloidal stability; (2) disulfide linkages can be cleaved in a reductive environment for tumor specific drug release due to the high GSH concentrations of tumor micro-environment; (3) PCPDTBT dots and anti-cancer drug DOX that are loaded inside the hydrophobic core of the micelle can be applied to simultaneously perform PTT and chemotherapy to achieve significantly enhanced tumor killing efficiency both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, our studies demonstrated that our SPDOX NPs with simultaneous photothermal-chemotherapy functions could be a promising platform for a tumor specific responsive drug delivery system.

Ultra-small pH-responsive Nd-doped NaDyF4 Nanoagents for Enhanced Cancer Theranostic by in situ Aggregation

To achieve accurate tumor location and highly efficient cancer therapy effect, the properties of cancer theranostic agents should be optimized and enhanced. In this work, ultra-small Nd doped NaDyF₄ were firstly reported as novel contrast agents for near-infrared second window downconversion luminescence (NIR II DCL) and magnetic resonance imaging. Based on the optimization strategy, gallic acid-Fe(III) complex modified NaDyF₄:10%Nd (NaDyF₄:10%Nd-GA-Fe) was selected as the optimal agent with high transversal relaxivity, strong NIR II DCL, high photothermal conversion efficiency, and low toxicity. In vitro experiment found that it can be aggregated rapidly in low pH condition, leading to the particle size increasing. Due to the theranostic properties coupled in NaDyF₄:10%Nd-GA-Fe are size dependent, properties enhancement was observed within the pH responsive aggregation progress. Further study in small animal model bearing tumor demonstrated the enhanced cancer theranostic by in situ aggregation. The optimized nanoagents have potential applications in medical and also provide a novel strategy for future study of cancer theranostic enhancement.

Melittin-Containing Hybrid Peptide Hydrogels for Enhanced Photothermal Therapy of Glioblastoma

The design of biocompatible and efficacious anticancer biomaterials to achieve relatively low tumor recurrence rates is the main pursuit of cancer photothermal therapy (PTT). RADA16-I is a synthetic amphiphilic peptide with the sequence RADARADARADARADA that can self-assemble into a peptide nanofiber hydrogel. In this study, we synthesized a novel melittin-RADA₃₂-indocyanine green (ICG) hydrogel ("MRI hydrogel"), which contains melittin in the peptide hydrogel backbone and ICG in the hydrogel matrix, for enhanced PTT of glioblastomas. The MRI hydrogel exhibited physiologic characteristics similar to those of the RADA₁₆ hydrogel, while displaying concentration-dependent cytotoxicity to C6 glioma cells and photothermal effects. The in vivo biodistribution of the MRI hydrogel was visualized by near-infrared fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging. More importantly, in vivo PTT provided by the MRI hydrogel significantly reduced the tumor size and the tumor recurrence rate compared with the RADR₁₆-ICG hydrogel and other controls, suggesting a synergistic effect of MRI hydrogel-carried melittin and ICG-based PTT treatment. Thus, MRI provides an alternative tool for the safe and efficient PTT treatment of tumors.

A Smart Responsive Dual Aptamers-Targeted Bubble-Generating Nanosystem for Cancer Triplex Therapy and Ultrasound Imaging

The absence of targeted, single treatment methods produces low therapeutic value for treating cancers. To increase the accumulation of drugs in tumors and improve the treatment effectiveness, near-infrared 808 nm photothermal responsive dual aptamers-targeted docetaxel (DTX)-containing nanoparticles is proposed. In this system, DTX and NH₄ HCO₃ are loaded in thermosensitive liposomes. The surface of liposomes is coated with gold nanoshells and connected with sulfydryl (SH) modified AS1411 and S2.2 aptamers. The nanosystem has good biocompatibility and uniform size (diameter about 200 nm). The drug is rapidly released, reaching a maximum amount (84%) at 4 h under 808 nm laser irradiation. The experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo demonstrate the nanosystem can synergistically inhibit tumor growth by combination of chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, and biological therapy. Dual ligand functionalization significantly increases cellular uptake on breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) cells and achieves ultrasound imaging (USI) at tumor site. The results indicate that this drug delivery system is a promising theranostic agent involving light-thermal response at tumor sites, dual ligand targeted triplex therapy, and USI.

Ultrahigh Sensitivity Multifunctional Nanoprobe for the Detection of Hydroxyl Radical and Evaluation of Heavy Metal Induced Oxidative Stress in Live Hepatocyte

Hydroxyl radical (^•OH) is an important marker of the progress of heavy metal induced oxidative stress. However, most reported probes and detection methods cannot meet the need of monitoring the ^•OH concentration within the whole progress because of the limited linear range. Besides, a low detection limit, high sensitivity, and good selectivity were also required. In this study, an ultrahigh sensitivity multifunctional nanoprobe (ICG-modified NaLuF₄:Yb,Er) was developed to evaluate heavy metal induced oxidative stress by detecting ^•OH concentration, with a colorimetric, upconversion luminescence, and photothermal stepped method. This method has a broad linear detection range, from 16 pM to 2 μM, and a low detection limit of 4 pM. Besides, the nanoprobe showed less response to ions, amino acids, biomolecules, and other radical oxygen species (H₂O₂ and O₂^-) than ^•OH. This highly selective, highly sensitive probe with a broad linear detection range has great potential utility for monitoring ^•OH concentration in live hypatocyte within the progress of heavy metal induced oxidative stress, with probable in vivo applications in the future.

Gold nanoshell coated thermo-pH dual responsive liposomes for resveratrol delivery and chemo-photothermal synergistic cancer therapy

Stimuli-responsive drug delivery and release have a great significance in cancer therapy. Herein, a multifunctional responsive drug carrier was designed and developed by loading resveratrol (Res) in chitosan (CTS) modified liposomes, and coated by gold nanoshells (GNS@CTS@Res-lips). The resultant GNS@CTS@Res-lips possess broad near-infrared (NIR) absorbance, high capability, stability, and also high photothermal conversion ability for efficient photothermal therapy (PTT) applications. In addition, the GNS@CTS@Res-lips exhibit the on-demand pH/photothermal-sensitive drug release, and a high loading capacity of Res. Under NIR laser irradiation, the drug delivery system could significantly enhance the cellular uptake of drugs. More importantly, compared to the single chemotherapy or PTT, the carriers with NIR irradiation displayed a higher therapeutic effect for HeLa cells. Therefore, the GNS@CTS@Res-lips with a combination of chemotherapy and PTT will show great potential for application in cancer therapy.

An efficient strategy to synthesize a multifunctional ferroferric oxide core@dye/SiO2@Au shell nanocomposite and its targeted tumor theranostics

Regular spheric magnetic ferroferric oxide nanoclusters have been developed and used for the targeted photothermal therapy of colorectal cancer cells after conjugation with SW620-specific phage fusion proteins.

New advances on the marrying of UCNPs and photothermal agents for imaging-guided diagnosis and the therapy of tumors

This review primarily focuses on the new advances in the design and theranostic applications of rare earth upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs)–NIR photothermal absorbers multifunctional nanoplatforms.

Metallic oxide nanocrystals with near-infrared plasmon resonance for efficient, stable and biocompatible photothermal cancer therapy

The synthesized MoO₂ nanocrystals exhibit excellent photothermal temperature elevation of about 37.5 °C under 808 nm laser irradiation, and tumor inhibition effects with an inhibition rate of up to 80.45% as a photothermal therapy agent against 4T1 cancer cells.