Upconversion nanocomposites for photo-based cancer theranostics

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Photochemistry

Background:

• Lanthanide ion doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) exhibit unique light conversion properties.
• UCNPs convert long-wavelength excitation (e.g., 980 nm) into high-energy UV or visible emissions.
• Key properties include sharp emission bands, low autofluorescence, and high tissue penetration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in UCNP-based multifunctional nanoplatforms.
• To highlight applications in bioimaging and cancer phototheranostics.
• To discuss emerging trends, future directions, and challenges in the field.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of UCNP applications.
• Focus on UCNP-based nanocomposites for multimodal imaging.
• Analysis of UCNPs in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT).

Main Results:

• UCNPs demonstrate significant potential in bioimaging and biosensing.
• UCNP-based nanocomposites are effective for multimodal tumor imaging.
• UCNPs show promise for low-invasive cancer therapies (PDT and PTT).

Conclusions:

• UCNP-based nanoplatforms are versatile tools for advanced biomedical applications.
• Continued research is crucial for overcoming challenges and realizing the full potential of UCNPs in theranostics.
• The field is rapidly evolving with emerging trends and future directions.