Precision nanomaterials in colorectal cancer: advancing photodynamic and photothermal therapy

Nanomaterials, due to their unique size, excellent targeting ability, and good biocompatibility, have gradually gained attention in oncologic medical treatments. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT), known for their low side effects and minimal trauma, are widely used in immunotherapy for malignant tumors. However, limitations such as low light penetration depth, poor targeting, and localized thermal effects restrict the application scope of photothermal dynamic therapy. Clinical studies have found that nano-mediated targeted drug carriers exhibit low toxicity and good biocompatibility. Furthermore, the superior photothermal conversion performance of nanomaterials can significantly enhance the efficacy of photothermal dynamic therapy in colorectal cancer treatment. Nanomaterials, which have been involved in various cancer treatment processes, represent an emerging medical biomaterial. This review systematically explores the types of nanomaterials currently commonly applied in medicine, with a particular focus on their breakthroughs and cutting-edge research in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) for colorectal cancer. It also discusses the future prospects and improvement strategies of nanomaterials in precision medicine.