An Injectable Photothermal-Fusing Hydrogel: Achieving Temperature-Controllable Mild Photothermal Therapy to Reverse...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Oncology

Background:

• Mild photothermal therapy (M-PTT) can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) to overcome immune tolerance from chemotherapy.
• Controlling temperature during M-PTT remains a challenge for effective cancer treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a convenient strategy for temperature-controlled M-PTT.
• To create a synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy for enhanced antitumor effects.

Main Methods:

• Constructed nanoparticles with lauric acid (LA), deferoxamine mesylate (DFO), and cisplatin (CDDP).
• Incorporated nanoparticles into a polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)/tannic acid (TA)/Fe3+ hydrogel to form FeTP@DLD/DLC.
• Utilized LA's phase change property for temperature self-regulation and DFO release upon reaching 43 °C.

Main Results:

• FeTP@DLD/DLC demonstrated a 'photothermal fusing effect' by releasing DFO to disrupt the hydrogel and halt temperature increase at 43 °C.
• Achieved synergistic effects of M-PTT-induced ICD and CDDP chemotherapy.
• Showcased potent antitumor efficacy through a single administration.

Conclusions:

• The developed FeTP@DLD/DLC offers a convenient solution for temperature-controlled M-PTT.
• This approach effectively synergizes chemotherapy with M-PTT to reverse immune tolerance and enhance antitumor outcomes.
• Provides a promising strategy for revitalizing traditional antitumor therapies.