A near-infrared light-responsive nanocomposite for photothermal release of H2S and suppression of cell viability

A near-infrared light triggered photothermal H2S-release platform was developed using a combination of photothermal nanoparticles and thermo-labile precursors, and was exploited for synchronous photothermal stimulation and gas release to suppress cell viability. Polyethyleneimine-dithiocarbamate as a H2S donor was assembled on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets by electrostatic adsorption. In the nanocomposites, rGO nanosheets converted near-infrared light into thermal energy and activated the H2S donor to produce H2S. Synchronous photothermal stimulation and H2S gas release resulted in effective killing of cancer cells. This work presents an effective method that suppresses the growth of tumour cells and leads to an improved anti-cell proliferation outcome. Near-infrared light-triggered photothermal stimulation, in combination with H2S gas generation, may offer an effective strategy to further develop a cancer synergistic treatment platform.