Biodegradable/disintegrable nanohybrids for photothermal theranostics

Nanohybrids using biocompatible and biodegradable materials are explored for their photothermal mediated theranostic applications. These hybrids are so chosen that they are biocompatible and biodegradable. Gold-based different nanosystems have NIR absorption which is highly favored for PTT, but they are limited by their toxicity, stability, and clearance. To overcome these challenges, we have demonstrated thermosensitive liposome-gold hybrid nanosystem for photothermal therapy and its clearance in vivo for the first time. We have also explored the possibility of using the same hybrid as drug (curcumin) carrier for triggered delivery and were successful in using curcumin as an adjuvant to PTT. Thermoresponsive polymers coated with gold for photothermal therapy and X-ray imaging of deep seated tumors has been evaluated. Fluorescent Poly (ethylene glycol) encapsulated metal nanoparticles were also synthesized and their application for cancer theranostics has been explored. Biodegradable and biocompatible polymer (PLGA) and liposomes loaded with anticancer plant fraction and a NIR dye showed synergistic photo-chemo therapy against cancer in-vitro & in-vivo. The intracellular changes with PTT and the mechanistic action of anti-cancer agent were explored in detail. Graphic abstract