Carbon Dots for Next-Generation Cancer Theranostics: From Advanced Imaging to Targeted Therapy

Quasi-spherical fluorescent carbon dots (CDs) have gained attention as a powerful tool in cancer theranostics due to their exceptional optical properties, biocompatibility, and tunable surface functionalities. This review focuses on the diverse roles of CDs in cancer diagnostics and therapies. CDs are increasingly being explored for their applications in various cancer therapies, such as in photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), photocatalytic therapy (PCT), sonodynamic therapy (SDT), drug delivery systems, and advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and photoacoustic imaging (PAI). By integrating multimodal therapeutic strategies, CDs help to overcome various challenges such as tumor hypoxia, drug resistance, and off-target effects, facilitating more precise cancer treatments. Furthermore, recent advancements in surface modification and functionalization have improved the selectivity, efficacy, and safety of CDs, enabled better targeting of tumors, and enhanced treatment outcomes. This review emphasizes the potential of CDs to combine diagnostic and therapeutic functions, offering exciting possibilities for the future of cancer cure.