Multifunctional Gold Super-Nanoparticle-Based Nanosystem for SERS-Guided Oxygen-Independent Phototherapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Tumor hypoxia complicates cancer treatment, reducing therapeutic efficacy.
• Developing oxygen-independent therapeutic strategies is crucial for effective cancer management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a multifunctional nanosystem for SERS-guided, oxygen-independent phototherapy.
• To integrate diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for synergistic cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a gold superlattice-nanoparticle (GSP) core with 1,4-benzenedithiol (1,4-BDT) for SERS.
• Encapsulation of GSPs within a polydopamine (PDA) shell loaded with AIPH (photosensitizer) and cRGD (targeting peptide).
• Utilizing near-infrared (NIR) light to activate photothermal and free radical generation for tumor ablation.

Main Results:

• The nanosystem demonstrated enhanced structural stability and SERS signal amplification.
• NIR irradiation induced hyperthermia and oxygen-independent free radical release.
• SERS imaging enabled real-time monitoring of tumor progression and treatment response.

Conclusions:

• The developed nanosystem provides a promising platform for targeted, oxygen-independent phototherapy.
• This approach addresses critical challenges in cancer treatment by overcoming tumor hypoxia.
• The combination of SERS imaging and phototherapy offers significant potential for synergistic cancer diagnosis and treatment.