HIGHLIGHTS • Bi 2 Se 3 @AIPH nanoparticles (NPs) can realize photothermal and photodynamic therapies in a cascading manner when exposed to "one" single NIR laser. • Hyperthermia produced by Bi 2 Se 3 NPs under NIR laser irradiation cannot only be used for photothermal therapy, but also the "switch" for controlled release of AIPH and excitation of free radical at the tumor site. • Free radical produced by thermal-responsive decomposition of AIPH is oxygen-independent, which treats hypoxic tumor well and further enhances immune response.