Synergistic photothermal and chemo-therapeutic platform utilizing CuSe/PDA/AIPH nanoparticles for targeted tumor eradication.

In this study, we developed an innovative CuSe/PDA/AIPH nanoparticle platform that combines photothermal therapy and chemotherapy for effective tumor treatment. The CuSe nanoparticles, known for their strong near-infrared (NIR) absorption, were encapsulated within a polydopamine (PDA) and 2,2'-azobis[2-(2-imidazolin-2-yl)propane] dihydrochloride (AIPH) matrix. Upon NIR irradiation, the platform triggers localized heating and subsequent thermal decomposition of AIPH, releasing ROS to induce significant oxidative damage in tumor cells. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that CuSe/PDA/AIPH nanoparticles exhibit excellent biocompatibility, effective photothermal conversion, and potent anticancer efficacy. This multifunctional nanosystem offers a promising approach for enhancing tumor therapy by combining PTT with ROS-mediated chemotherapy.