Progress in Metal-Based Nanomaterials for Photothermal Therapy in the Second Near-Infrared Window

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Oncology

Background:

• Photothermal therapy (PTT) offers a minimally invasive cancer treatment alternative.
• The near-infrared-II (NIR-II) window enhances PTT with deeper penetration and better safety.
• Metal-based nanoparticles are effective photothermal agents but face biosafety challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in metal-based nanoparticles for NIR-II PTT.
• To summarize strategies for multifunctional synergistic cancer treatment using these nanoparticles.
• To discuss challenges and opportunities for future development.

Main Methods:

• Review of photothermal effect mechanisms and PTT efficacy indicators.
• Systematic introduction of metal and metal-compound nanoparticles for PTT and combination therapies.
• Discussion of current challenges and future prospects.

Main Results:

• Metal-based nanoparticles exhibit strong photothermal conversion for NIR-II PTT.
• Various strategies enable multifunctional synergistic treatments (e.g., PDT, CDT, chemotherapy).
• Biosafety and metabolic fate remain key considerations for clinical translation.

Conclusions:

• Metal-based nanoparticles are highly effective for NIR-II PTT.
• Multifunctional synergistic approaches enhance therapeutic outcomes.
• Addressing biosafety and metabolic challenges is crucial for advancing NIR-II PTT.