Mannose-modified AuNSs@Ag₂S for visualized and synergistic photothermal/photodynamic tumor therapy

A mannose-modified nanoplatform (AuNSs@Ag₂S) was designed to address targeting and accumulation limitations in photo-mediated tumor therapy. Optimization of the mannose linker's length and flexibility enhanced specific recognition of mannose receptor-positive CT26 colon cancer cells, enabling precise tumor imaging in vivo. The plasmon resonance effect of gold nanostars (AuNSs) endowed the probe with superior photothermal conversion efficiency (61.3%), while simultaneously amplifying the photocatalytic performance of Ag₂S quantum dots. This synergistic enhancement mechanism effectively facilitated the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Under near-infrared irradiation, synergistic photothermal-photodynamic therapy achieved 94.3% tumor suppression in vivo with minimal systemic toxicity. This therapeutic platform overcomes critical barriers in solid tumor treatment by integrating tumor-targeted imaging, dual-mode therapy, and plasmon-enhanced catalytic functions. Employing a linker optimization strategy for nanomaterials, it provides an efficient solution for combined PTT/PDT therapy, simultaneously enabling receptor-specific theranostics and synergistic therapeutic enhancement, thereby advancing the clinical translation of photo-mediated therapies.