pH-responsive black phosphorus quantum dots for tumor-targeted photodynamic therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Cancer Therapy

Background:

• Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) show promise in tumor therapy due to their photoelectric properties and biodegradability.
• Current BPQD modifications like pegylation can hinder tumor cell uptake and lead to clearance by the reticuloendothelial system.
• Instability and poor tumor targeting limit the clinical application of BPQDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel nanosystem for efficient and targeted delivery of BPQDs into tumor cells.
• To overcome the limitations of poor stability and non-specific uptake of BPQDs.

Main Methods:

• Modification of BPQDs with cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) and RGD peptides for tumor targeting.
• Encapsulation with a negatively charged PEG+DMMA outer layer for enhanced stability.
• Utilizing the acidic tumor microenvironment for charge reversal and drug release.

Main Results:

• The developed nanosystem demonstrates improved stability under physiological conditions.
• The charge-reversal strategy enhances the specific uptake of BPQDs by tumor cells.
• The modified BPQDs are effectively released into tumor cells in the acidic tumor environment.

Conclusions:

• This novel approach provides an efficient and accurate method for delivering BPQDs into tumor cells.
• The RGD-peptide-modified, PEI-coated BPQDs offer a promising strategy for photodynamic tumor therapy.
• The charge-reversal nanosystem overcomes key limitations for clinical translation of BPQD-based therapies.