Multifunctional Cancer Phototherapy Using Fluorophore-Functionalized Nanodiamond Supraparticles.

Abstract

In this study, the preparation and characterization of self-assembled supraparticles (SPs) comprising fluorophore-conjugated nanodiamond (ND) nanoclusters are described. The SPs are further used in photohyperthermic, photodynamic, and chemotherapeutic multifunctional tumor therapy systems that use bio-optical-window near-infrared lasers. NDs with surface amino groups are conjugated with various fluorophores via carbodiimide chemistry and are spontaneously transformed into self-assembled ND-based SP (ND-SP) nanoclusters. The fluorophore-functionalized ND-SPs exhibit a uniform particle size, high dispersity in water, and low cytotoxicity. In addition, the energy or electron transfer between fluorophores and NDs can enhance the photothermal conversion efficiency. Further, it is demonstrated that the synthesized ND-SPs strongly fluoresce and penetrate the cellular transmembrane, making them attractive for the targeted delivery of conventional nanomedicines such as albumin-bound paclitaxel (Abraxane) and simple drug-loaded ND conjugates. The near-infrared-light-driven efficiency of the fluorophore-functionalized ND-SPs encapsulating anticancer drugs is confirmed by the targeted eradication of cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the fluorophore-functionalized ND-SP nanoclusters may be proven to be a valuable new therapeutic agent for use in cancer treatment.