Utilizing Polymer Micelle to Control Dye J-aggregation and Enhance Its Theranostic Capability

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Indocyanine green (ICG) aggregation is crucial for photothermal therapy.
• Controlling ICG aggregation remains a challenge for efficient drug delivery.
• Polymer micelles offer a versatile platform for nanomedicine development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a polymer micelle system for controlled ICG J-aggregation.
• To create a multi-functional nanomedicine for targeted cancer phototheranostics.
• To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of the developed system.

Main Methods:

• Utilized polymer micelles as host templates for ICG J-aggregation via electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions.
• Encapsulated doxorubicin for chemotherapy and DNA aptamer for tumor targeting.
• Assessed intracellular and in vivo stability of the ICG J-aggregates within polymer micelles.
• Evaluated tumor elimination, recurrence, and long-term toxicity in a 24-day study.

Main Results:

• Achieved fast and efficient control over ICG J-aggregation using polymer micelles.
• Demonstrated robust host-guest interactions ensuring the integrity of ICG J-aggregates.
• The multi-functional micelles showed complete tumor elimination without local reoccurrence.
• Observed no long-term toxicity or side effects during the 24-day treatment period.

Conclusions:

• Polymer micelle-templated ICG J-aggregates represent a promising platform for cancer phototheranostics.
• The developed multi-functional micellar medicine exhibits high therapeutic efficacy and excellent safety profile.
• This approach offers a potential strategy for effective and safe cancer treatment.