Recent Progress on Carbon Dots for Tumor Photodynamic Therapy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Oncology

Background:

• Carbon dots (CDs) are zero-dimensional nanomaterials with biomedical applications.
• Their potential as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an emerging area of research.
• Current studies often focus on fluorescence and photothermal properties, with less emphasis on PDT applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review recent advances in carbon dot-based tumor photodynamic therapy (PDT).
• To categorize design strategies for CDs with photodynamic properties, highlighting the donor-acceptor approach.
• To explore methods for overcoming the tumor microenvironment and limitations of monotherapies in CD-based PDT.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent advances in CD-based tumor PDT.
• Categorization of CD design strategies for photodynamic properties.
• Analysis of synergistic therapeutic approaches and imaging-guided strategies.

Main Results:

• The donor-acceptor strategy is presented as a rational design approach for photodynamic CDs.
• Strategies to overcome the tumor microenvironment include improved targeting, hypoxia alleviation, and glutathione depletion.
• Combination therapies (photothermal, chemotherapy, immunotherapy) and imaging-guided PDT show significant potential.

Conclusions:

• Carbon dots offer a promising platform for advanced tumor photodynamic therapy.
• Rational design and combination strategies are crucial for overcoming therapeutic challenges.
• Imaging-guided CD-based PDT provides a theranostic approach for precise tumor treatment and long-term immune surveillance.