Self-assembled semiconducting polymer based hybrid nanoagents for synergistic tumor treatment

Abstract

There is an impending need for the development of carrier-free nanosystems for single laser triggered activation of phototherapy, as such approach can overcome the drawbacks associated with irradiation by two distinct laser sources for avoiding prolonged treatment time and complex treatment protocols. Herein, we developed a self-assembled nanosystem (SCP-CS) consisting of a new semiconducting polymer (SCP) and encapsulated ultrasmall CuS (CS) nanoparticles. The SCP component displays remarkable near infrared (NIR) induced photothermal ability, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and incredible photoacoustic (PA) signals upon activation by 808 nm laser for phototherapy mediated cancer ablation. The CuS component improves the PA imaging ability of SCP-CS, and also enhances photo-induced chemodynamic efficacy. Attributed to promoted single laser-triggered hyperthermia and enhanced ROS generation, the SCP-CS nanosystem shows effective intracellular uptake and intratumoral accumulation, enhanced tumor suppression with reduced treatment time, and devoid of any noticeable toxicity.

Keywords: Copper sulfide; Hybrid nanoparticles; Photoacoustic imaging; Phototherapy; Semiconducting polymers.