Nanoplatform with tumor-targeted aggregation and drug-specific release characteristics for photodynamic/photothermal combined antitumor therapy under near-infrared laser irradiation

Due to their high biocompatibility, high spatial resolution and chromatographic capability, as well as their adjustable size and morphology, magnetic nanoparticles have become the most promising nanomaterials for clinical application in noninvasive imaging and drug delivery for the treatment of malignant tumors. Here, a novel magnetic nanoparticle coated with calcium carbonate was prepared and loaded with near-infrared drugs as a multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. Then, these drug-loaded nanoparticles were applied to combined photodynamic/photothermal therapy under intravenous administration that was simultaneously guided by fluorescence/MR imaging. Due to targeted induction of the external magnetic field and tumor response degradation of the calcium carbonate layer, the nanoprobe demonstrated excellent tumor targeting and greatly improved drug aggregation in the tumor site. Finally, single wavelength-mediated photothermal/ photodynamic therapy was applied to liver cancer model mice, ultimately achieving an exciting antitumor therapeutic effect. This study may promote the further exploration of nanoplatforms based on magnetic nanoparticles for clinical application in the treatment of malignant tumors.