Search Results (256)

Background/Objectives: The rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections demands innovative non-antibiotic therapeutic strategies. Dual-modal photoresponse therapy integrating photodynamic (PDT) and photothermal (PTT) effects offers a promising rapid antibacterial approach, yet designing single-material systems with synergistic enhancement remains challenging. This study aims to develop uniform Cu-based metal–organic framework micrometer cubes (Cu-BN) for efficient PDT/PTT synergy. Methods: Cu-BN cubes were synthesized via a one-step hydrothermal method using Cu(NO₃)₂ and 2-amino-p-benzoic acid. The material’s dual-mode responsiveness to visible light (420 nm) and near-infrared light (808 nm) was characterized through UV–Vis spectroscopy, photothermal profiling, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation assays. Antibacterial efficacy against multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was quantified via colony counting under dual-light irradiation. Results: Under synergistic 420 + 808 nm irradiation for 15 min, Cu-BN (200 μg/mL) achieved rapid eradication of multidrug-resistant E. coli (99.94%) and S. aureus (99.83%). The material reached 58.6 °C under dual-light exposure, significantly exceeding single-light performance. Photodynamic analysis confirmed a 78.7% singlet oxygen (¹O₂) conversion rate. This enhancement stems from PTT-induced membrane permeabilization accelerating ROS diffusion, while PDT-generated ROS sensitized bacteria to thermal damage. Conclusions: This integrated design enables spatiotemporal PDT/PTT synergy within a single Cu-BN system, establishing a new paradigm for rapid-acting, broad-spectrum non-antibiotic antimicrobials. The work provides critical insights for developing light-responsive biomaterials against drug-resistant infections. Full article

Organic afterglow nanoparticles (OANs) represent a unique class of optical materials capable of sustaining luminescence after excitation cessation. Owing to their exceptional design flexibility, tunable optical properties, and favorable biosafety profiles, OAN-based afterglow imaging has emerged as an advanced modality in tumor diagnosis and therapy. These nanostructures demonstrate significant potential in guiding precision surgical interventions and real-time monitoring of tumor treatment, including photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and immunotherapy. This review systematically analyzes and discusses the luminescence mechanisms of OANs under various excitation sources, with particular emphasis on recent developments in tumor detection and treatment. Additionally, we also discuss the current challenges and future perspectives of using these nanoparticles in this field. Full article

Amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregates are considered as the important factors of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Multifunctional materials have shown significant effects in the diagnosis and treatment of AD by modulating the aggregation of Aβ and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Compared to traditional surgical treatment and radiotherapy, phototherapy has the advantages, including short response time, significant efficacy, and minimal side effects in disease diagnosis and treatment. Recent studies have shown that local thermal energy or singlet oxygen generated by irradiating certain organic molecules or nanomaterials with specific laser wavelengths can effectively degrade Aβ aggregates and depress the generation of ROS, promoting progress in AD diagnosis and therapy. Herein, we outline the development of photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) strategies for the diagnosis and therapy of AD by modulating Aβ aggregation. The materials mainly include organic photothermal agents or photosensitizers, polymer materials, metal nanoparticles, quantum dots, carbon-based nanomaterials, etc. In addition, compared to traditional fluorescent dyes, aggregation-induced emission (AIE) molecules have the advantages of good stability, low background signals, and strong resistance to photobleaching for bioimaging. Some AIE-based materials exhibit excellent photothermal and photodynamic effects, showing broad application prospects in the diagnosis and therapy of AD. We further summarize the advances in the detection of Aβ aggregates and phototherapy of AD using AIE-based materials. Full article

Encouraging discoveries and excellent advances in the fight against cancer have led to innovative therapies such as photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), drug targeting (DT), gene therapy (GT), immunotherapy (IT), and therapies that combine these treatments with conventional chemotherapy (CT). Furthermore, 2,041,910 new cancer cases and 618,120 cancer deaths have been estimated in the United States for the year 2025. The low survival rate (<50%) and poor prognosis of several cancers, despite aggressive treatments, are due to therapy-induced secondary tumorigenesis and the emergence of drug resistance. Moreover, serious adverse effects and/or great pain usually arise during treatments and/or in survivors, thus lowering the overall effectiveness of these cures. Although prevention is of paramount importance, novel anticancer approaches are urgently needed to address these issues. In the field of anticancer nanomedicine, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) could be of exceptional help due to their intrinsic, unprecedented features, easy functionalization, and large surface area, allowing excellent drug loading. CNTs can serve as drug carriers and as ingredients to engineer multifunctional platforms associated with diverse treatments for both anticancer therapy and diagnosis. The present review debates the most relevant advancements about the adjuvant role that CNTs could have in cancer diagnosis and therapy if associated with PTT, PDT, DT, GT, CT, and IT. Numerous sensing strategies utilising various CNT-based sensors for cancer diagnosis have been discussed in detail, never forgetting the still not fully clarified toxicological aspects that may derive from their extensive use. The unsolved challenges that still hamper the possible translation of CNT-based material in clinics, including regulatory hurdles, have been discussed to push scientists to focus on the development of advanced synthetic and purification work-up procedures, thus achieving more perfect CNTs for their safer real-life clinical use. Full article

Recent advancements in phototherapy have underscored the need for effective cellular imaging agents that can enhance therapeutic efficacy and precision. Perylene diimide (PDI) dyes, known for their unique optical properties and biocompatibility, have emerged as promising candidates in this domain. This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential applications of PDI dyes in cellular imaging, specifically within the context of phototherapies. We explore the synthesis of these dyes, their photophysical characteristics, and mechanisms of cellular uptake. Moreover, this review highlights recent studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of PDI dyes in the real-time imaging of cellular processes and their synergistic effects in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT). By evaluating various experimental approaches and their outcomes, we aim to elucidate the advantages of employing PDI dyes in clinical settings. The findings of this review suggest that perylene diimide dyes are not only capable of enhancing imaging contrast but also optimizing the therapeutic response in targeted phototherapy applications. Ultimately, this paper advocates for further research into the integration of PDI dyes in clinical practice, emphasizing their potential to significantly improve patient outcomes in cancer and other diseases requiring photoactive treatment modalities. Full article

In recent years, physical anti-cancer strategies using radiation, light, sound, electricity, and magnetism have shown great potential in cancer treatment. Photodynamic therapy, radiation therapy, photothermal therapy, and other treatments have different advantages. As a critical transcriptional coactivator in the Hippo signaling pathway, Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) is closely related to tumor proliferation, radiation resistance, and immunosuppression. YAP has been a target in immunotherapy, and YAP inhibitors are used in clinical practice. Combining immunotherapy and physical anti-cancer strategies is an anti-cancer program with clinical potential to enhance the therapeutic effect. This review summarizes the role of photodynamic therapy, radiotherapy, and other physical anti-cancer strategies combined with YAP-targeted therapy in cancer treatment. YAP inhibitors and these physical anti-cancer strategies provide new directions and ideas for cancer treatment. Full article

The therapeutic use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been increasing, especially in phototherapy strategies. The plasmonic properties of AgNPs have contributed to their excellent results as phototherapeutic agents, namely for photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and photodynamic inactivation of microorganisms. Moreover, the capacity of these nanostructures to release silver ions (Ag⁺) and enhance the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been explored in combination with light to treat several diseases. Moreover, synthesis, functionalization, and conjugation strategies with targeting agents have been widely studied to optimize selectivity and maximize the therapeutic efficacy of these nanoplatforms. In this work, we reviewed the recent advancements (2019–2024) in the use of AgNPs for phototherapy applications, with an emphasis on evaluating therapeutic efficacy and specific targeting. According to the literature, in oncology, AgNPs have been predominately employed in PTT-based strategies, demonstrating significant tumor cell death and preservation of healthy tissues, in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Concurrently, AgNP-mediated PDT has emerged as a promising approach for the eradication of bacteria and fungi, particularly those commonly associated with antibiotic resistance. The compiled data indicate that AgNPs represent an innovative and effective therapeutic alternative, with a strong potential for clinical translation, in both cancer treatment and the management of hard-to-treat infections. Full article

Medical research is at the forefront of addressing pressing global challenges, including preventing and treating cardiovascular, autoimmune, and oncological diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and the growing resistance of pathogens to antibiotics. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases, using advanced medical approaches and cutting-edge technologies, structure-based drug design, and personalized medicine, is critical for developing effective therapies, specifically anticancer treatments. Background/Objectives: One of the key drivers of cancer at the cellular level is the abnormal activity of protein enzymes, specifically serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues, through a process known as phosphorylation. While tyrosine kinase-mediated phosphorylation constitutes a minor fraction of total cellular phosphorylation, its dysregulation is critically linked to carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Methods: Small-molecule inhibitors, such as imatinib or erlotinib, are designed to halt this process, restoring cellular equilibrium and offering targeted therapeutic approaches. However, challenges persist, including frequent drug resistance and severe side effects associated with these therapies. Nanomedicine offers a transformative potential to overcome these limitations. Results: By leveraging the unique properties of nanomaterials, it is possible to achieve precise drug delivery, enhance accumulation at target sites, and improve therapeutic efficacy. Examples include nanoparticle-based delivery systems for TKIs and the combination of nanomaterials with photothermal or photodynamic therapies to enhance treatment effectiveness. Combining nanomedicine with traditional treatments holds promise and perspective for synergistic and more effective cancer management. Conclusions: This review delves into recent advances in understanding tyrosine kinase activity, the mechanisms of their inhibition, and the innovative integration of nanomedicine to revolutionize cancer treatment strategies. Full article

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are gaining popularity in nanomedicine due to their large surface area, variable pore size, great biocompatibility, and chemical adaptability. In recent years, the combination of smart polymeric materials with MSNs has transformed the area of regulated drug administration, particularly under stimuli-responsive settings. Polymer-modified MSNs provide increased stability, longer circulation times, and, most crucially, the capacity to respond to diverse internal (pH, redox potential, enzymes, and temperature) and external (light, magnetic field, and ultrasonic) stimuli. These systems allow for the site-specific, on-demand release of therapeutic molecules, increasing treatment effectiveness while decreasing off-target effects. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in the development and application of polymer-functionalized MSNs for stimuli-triggered drug delivery. Key polymeric modifications, including thermoresponsive, pH-sensitive, redox-responsive, and enzyme-degradable systems, are discussed in terms of their design strategies and therapeutic outcomes. The synergistic use of dual or multiple stimuli-responsive polymers is also highlighted as a promising avenue to enhance precision and control in complex biological environments. Moreover, the integration of targeting ligands and stealth polymers such as PEG further enables selective tumor targeting and immune evasion, broadening the potential clinical applications of these nanocarriers. Recent progress in stimuli-triggered MSNs for combination therapies such as chemo-photothermal and chemo-photodynamic therapy is also covered, emphasizing how polymer modifications enhance responsiveness and therapeutic synergy. Finally, the review discusses current challenges, including scalability, biosafety, and regulatory considerations, and provides perspectives on future directions to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical translation. Full article

Multifunctional hydrogels represent an emerging technological advancement in cancer therapeutics, integrating diagnostic imaging capabilities with therapeutic modalities into comprehensive, multifunctional systems. These hydrogels exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, biodegradability, high water retention capacity, and tunable mechanical properties, enabling precise drug delivery while minimizing systemic side effects. Recent innovations in stimuli-responsive components facilitate intelligent, controlled drug release mechanisms triggered by various stimuli, including changes in pH, temperature, magnetic fields, and near-infrared irradiation. Incorporating diagnostic imaging agents, such as magnetic nanoparticles, fluorescent dyes, and radiolabeled isotopes, substantially improves tumor visualization and real-time therapeutic monitoring. Multifunctional hydrogels effectively integrate chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and their synergistic combinations, demonstrating superior therapeutic outcomes compared to conventional methods. Particularly, injectable and in situ-forming hydrogels provide sustained local drug delivery postoperatively, effectively reducing tumor recurrence. However, challenges persist, including initial burst release, mechanical instability, regulatory barriers, and scalability concerns. Current research emphasizes advanced nanocomposite formulations, biofunctionalization strategies, and innovative manufacturing technologies like 3D bioprinting to facilitate clinical translation. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advancements, clinical applications, and future perspectives of multifunctional hydrogel systems for enhanced cancer treatment, underscoring their potential to revolutionize personalized oncology. Full article

Severe systemic toxicity and poor targeting efficiency remain major limitations of traditional chemotherapy, emphasising the need for smarter drug delivery systems. Magnetic 2D transition-metal-based nanomaterials offer a promising approach, as they can be designed to combine high drug loading, precise targeting, and controlled release. The key material classes—transition metal dichalcogenides, transition metal carbides/nitrides, transition metal oxides, and metal–organic frameworks—share important physicochemical properties. These include high surface-to-volume ratios, tuneable functionalities, and efficient intracellular uptake. Incorporating magnetic nanoparticles into these 2D structures broadens their potential beyond drug delivery, through enabling multimodal therapeutic strategies such as hyperthermia induction, real-time imaging, and photothermal or photodynamic therapy. This review outlines the potential of magnetic 2D transition-metal-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications by evaluating their therapeutic performance and biological response. In parallel, it offers a critical analysis of how differences in physicochemical properties influence their potential for specific cancer treatment applications, highlighting the most promising uses of each in bionanomedicine. Full article

Deep-seated tumors present significant diagnostic challenges and pose substantial mortality risks due to their occult anatomical localization. Current diagnostic paradigms predominantly depend on conventional imaging modalities; nevertheless, inherent technical constraints persistently compromise diagnostic precision and therapeutic efficacy. In contrast to traditional methodologies, near-infrared (NIR; 700–1700 nm) fluorescence imaging (FLI) demonstrates superior sensitivity and spatiotemporal resolution, facilitating real-time intraoperative visualization and precision-guided surgical interventions. This paper explores fluorescence materials with tailored structures for tumors at different depths. We critically analyze optimization strategies for NIR fluorescence materials while evaluating their comparative advantages in stratified tissue imaging. This study presents a systematic evaluation of NIR fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) systems and image reconstruction methodologies. These insights provide feasible ideas for detecting and treating tumors at varying depths in clinical practice. Furthermore, the application of NIR fluorescent materials in tumor diagnosis, navigation-guided surgery, and phototherapy (including photothermal, photodynamic, and immunomodulation therapies) is discussed. Finally, the prospects and challenges of clinical transformation are summarized. Full article

Targeting and multidrug resistance are the significant problems of current antitumor drugs, and these problems become the key factors in the design of nanomedicine. Herein, Au NRs and OPC-Au NPs were prepared via the hydroquinone seedless growth method and proanthocyanidin (OPC) one-pot method, and then pH-GSH-near-infrared ΙΙ (NIR-ΙΙ)-responsive nano-prodrugs Au/DOX-ss LNRs and OPC-Au/DOX-ss LNPs were designed by the encapsulation of doxorubicin prodrug DOX-ss with Au-S affinity and thermal-sensitive liposomes. Interestingly, OPC endowed OPC-Au NPs with reducibility and excellent performance in terms of particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation rate, and drug loading rate. In particular, the photothermal efficiencies of OPC-Au/DOX-ss LNPs increased to 59.22% under the 1064 nm NIR-ΙΙ irradiation. Compared with free DOX-ss and Lipid DOX-ss, the IC50 of OPC-Au/DOX-ss LNPs was decreased by 91.68% and 97.60%, respectively. Furthermore, the expression of P-gp in MCF-7/ADR was significantly inhibited (decreased by 65%). The potential of proanthocyanidin remodels the pH-GSH-NIR-ΙΙ responsiveness and drug resistance of OPC-Au/DOX-ss LNPs for breast cancer treatment in NIR-ΙΙ photodynamic/photothermal therapy. Full article

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, prompting extensive research into novel theranostic (combined word of diagnostic and therapeutic) strategies. Nanomedicine has emerged as a potential breakthrough in cancer theranosis, overcoming limitations of conventional approaches. Among such approaches, carbon dots (CDs) with a size smaller than 10 nm have garnered significant attention for their potential use in cancer theranosis, owing to their low toxicity, good water solubility, easy synthesis, facile surface modification, and unique optical and photothermal and photodynamic properties. Researchers have demonstrated that surface functionalization of CDs with diverse hydrophilic groups can be easily achieved by choosing proper carbon precursors in synthesis, and further surface modification of CDs with cancer-targeting ligands, photosensitizers, anticancer drugs, and genes can also be easily achieved using various methods, thereby establishing a versatile approach for cancer theranosis. This review described the various surface modification methods of CDs, in vitro and in vivo toxicity of CDs, and various cancer theranostic methods such as drug delivery, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, gene therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and gas therapy. Therefore, CDs can serve as various mono and combined theranostic modalities, offering us new methods for cancer theranosis. Full article

Chalcogen–containing therapeutic agents (TAs), which include sulfur (S), selenium (Se), and tellurium (Te) atoms, have recently emerged as a promising class of photosensitizers (PSs) and photothermal agents (PTAs) for cancer phototherapy. The incorporation of heavier chalcogens into organic chromophores leads to visible–to–near–infrared (VIS–NIR) light absorption, efficient triplet harvesting, and adequate heat and energy transfer efficiency, all of which are paramount for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT). However, chalcogen–based PSs/PTAs suffer from photostability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery issues, which minimize their PDT/PTT performances. Nevertheless, significant progress in the rational design of nanoencapsulation strategies has been achieved to overcome the challenges of chalcogen–based TAs for effective phototherapeutic cancer treatment. This review highlights the recent advances (within the last five years) in nano-drug delivery approaches adapted for chalcogen–substituted PSs/PTAs for PDT, PTT, or synergistic PDT/PTT, integrating imaging and treatment. The PSs/PTAs described in this review are classified into three classes: (i) sulfur, (ii) selenium, and (iii) tellurium–containing TAs used in phototherapy applications. This review offers a comprehensive perspective on the design of chalcogen–substituted photosensitizers (PSs) and photothermal agents (PTAs), covering spectroscopic and computational characterization, nanoformulation strategies, and their roles in enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and photothermal conversion efficiency for improved in vitro and in vivo performance. We hope this work will encourage further research into nanotechnological strategies designed to enhance the phototherapeutic efficacy of chalcogen–containing therapeutic agents. Full article