Liposomes Containing Nickel-Bis(dithiolene) Complexes for Photothermal Theranostics

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Thermosensitive liposomes (TSLs) are promising for controlled drug delivery.
• Photothermal agents are crucial for hyperthermia cancer therapy.
• Nickel-bis(dithiolene) complexes show potential as photothermal agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and characterize novel TSLs containing nickel-bis(dithiolene) complexes.
• To evaluate the potential of these TSLs for on-demand drug delivery.
• To assess their efficacy as nanoagents for photothermal therapy and photoacoustic imaging.

Main Methods:

• Formulation and characterization of TSLs with a 42 °C phase transition.
• Stability studies at physiological temperature (37 °C).
• Evaluation of photothermal effect under 940 nm near-infrared (NIR) laser irradiation.
• In vitro assessment of cell death induction.
• Investigation of photoacoustic signal generation.

Main Results:

• TSLs demonstrated high stability at 37 °C for over 30 days.
• NIR irradiation induced controlled release of liposome contents via mild hyperthermia.
• Effective photothermal therapy was achieved, inducing significant cell death with low metal complex concentration (<10% w/w).
• Nickel-bis(dithiolene) complexes were confirmed as efficient photoacoustic agents, with signals proportional to concentration and laser power.

Conclusions:

• Novel thermosensitive liposomes incorporating nickel-bis(dithiolene) complexes are stable and suitable for on-demand drug delivery.
• These TSLs serve as effective nanoagents for photothermal therapy and photoacoustic imaging.
• The combination of controlled release and photothermal activity offers a promising platform for cancer treatment.