FeSe2 nanosheets as a bifunctional platform for synergistic tumor therapy reinforced by NIR-II light

Biomater Sci. 2021 Aug 21;9(16):5542-5550. doi: 10.1039/d1bm00679g. Epub 2021 Jul 13.

Abstract

Multi-functionality has been a constant pursuit in the development of next-generation drug carriers, as it will bring the potential for combination therapy by integrating diverse therapeutic modes. In this work, FeSe2 nanosheets (NSs) have been prepared as a bifunctional platform to investigate their use in synergistic cancer therapy. Bifunctional FeSe2 NSs exhibit exceptional Fenton-like activity that generates cytotoxic hydroxyl radical (˙OH) and strong broad photothermal performance including the second-infrared (NIR-II) spectral range, wherein the ˙OH production can be enhanced by NIR-II light irradiation. Furthermore, doxorubicin (DOX) was conjugated onto NSs via a pH-responsive hydrazone bond to achieve preferential drug release in an acidic microenvironment. Upon intratumoral administration, these bifunctional drug-carrying FeSe2 NSs showed an NIR-II irradiation-reinforced strong tumor suppression effect, and no obvious toxicity to normal tissues was observed. This study provides a new paradigm for the design of advanced drug carriers relying on their inherent physicochemical properties.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Doxorubicin
  • Drug Liberation
  • Humans
  • Hyperthermia, Induced*
  • Nanoparticles*
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Phototherapy
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Substances

  • Doxorubicin