A single multifunctional nanoplatform based on upconversion luminescence and gold nanorods

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) are explored for theranostics.
• Upconversion converts near-infrared (NIR) light to higher energy light.
• Hybrid nanomaterials offer multifunctional properties for advanced applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a hybrid core/shell nanocomposite for theranostic applications.
• To investigate the photothermal and drug release properties of the nanocomposite.
• To evaluate its potential in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized a gold nanorod (GNR) core with a NaYF4:Er3+, Yb3+ upconverting shell (GNR@NaYF4:Er3+, Yb3+).
• Tuned GNR plasmon resonance to ~650 nm for efficient energy transfer.
• Loaded doxorubicin and evaluated its release under varying pH and temperature.

Main Results:

• The GNR@NaYF4:Er3+, Yb3+ nanocomposite exhibited thermal sensitivity under 980 nm laser irradiation.
• Photothermal effect from the GNR core enhanced doxorubicin release, especially at lower pH and higher temperatures.
• Energy transfer from the upconverting shell to the GNR core was confirmed.

Conclusions:

• The developed multifunctional nanocomposite enables controlled drug release via photothermal effect.
• This hybrid material shows significant potential for localized hyperthermia and targeted cancer therapy.
• The synergistic combination of upconversion and photothermal properties offers a promising platform for theranostics.