PH‐Responsive and Therapeutic Liposomes for Enhanced High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound Imaging and Therapy in Gynecologic Malignancies

Abstract

AbstractClinical evidence suggests that high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is emerging as an increasingly viable non‐invasive treatment for various gynecological diseases, demonstrating both high safety and effectiveness. Nevertheless, HIFU presents challenges in terms of energy dissipation and prolonged treatment time during the therapeutic process. In this study, liposomes containing ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) and paclitaxel (PTX), a first‐line chemotherapy drug, are utilized to enhance HIFU imaging and therapy. During HIFU treatment, the NH4HCO3 and PTX‐loaded liposomes (PTN@Lip) can release CO2 and NH3 in the tumor's acidic environment. These not only improve HIFU imaging but also regulate the tumor's acidic environment, thereby enhancing the uptake of PTX by tumor cells. Notably, the implementation of PTN@Lip and HIFU activates the immune system, leading to tumor inhibition or even elimination ultimately. This approach has the potential to address existing clinical treatment challenges and lay the groundwork for new directions in the treatment of gynecological tumors.