Fibrin-Targeting Metal-Organic Framework Nanoagent for NIR-Triggered Photothermal Thrombus Ablation

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Engineering

Background:

• Thrombosis is a major global health concern with current treatments facing limitations in targeting and side effects.
• Developing targeted therapies is crucial for effective and safe thrombolysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer a fibrin-targeting photothermal nanoassembly for enhanced thrombolysis.
• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the GCREKA-Pd@MIL-100 nanoassembly in preclinical models.

Main Methods:

• Encapsulation of palladium (Pd) nanoclusters within a MIL-100(Fe) metal-organic framework.
• Surface functionalization with a GCREKA peptide for thrombus targeting.
• In vitro and in vivo evaluation using thrombosis models and near-infrared (NIR) irradiation.

Main Results:

• GCREKA-Pd@MIL-100 demonstrated high photothermal conversion efficiency and enhanced colloidal stability.
• In vitro studies showed significant clot mass reduction (>50%) with excellent biocompatibility.
• In vivo studies achieved ~60% thrombus clearance at the target site with localized hyperthermia and no off-target damage.

Conclusions:

• GCREKA-Pd@MIL-100 is a potent, site-specific nanoagent for minimally invasive thrombolysis.
• This targeted photothermal therapy offers a promising alternative to conventional systemic thrombolytic treatments.