Light-Guided Nanomotor Systems for Autonomous Photothermal Cancer Therapy

Abstract

Machines have greatly contributed to the human civilization, enabling tasks beyond our capacities for improved quality of life. Recently, the progress in nanotechnology has triggered to build a miniaturized machine of nanoscale. In this context, synthetic nanomotors have gained considerable interest because of their great promise for diverse applications. Currently, the movement control of these nanomotors has been widely investigated using various stimuli. Here, we demonstrate near-infrared (NIR) light controlled on/off motion of stomatocyte nanomotors powered by the conversion of hydrogen peroxide. The nanomotors encapsulating naphthalocyanine (NC) are aggregated or separated (collective motion) with or without near-IR light illumination, resulting in the well-controlled movement. Remarkably, the nanomotors can move directionally toward hydrogen peroxide released from cancer cells and photothermally ablate the cancer cells. Taken together, our stomatocyte nanomotor systems can be effectively harnessed for autonomous photothermal cancer therapy.

Nano/Micromotors for Diagnosis and Therapy of Cancer and Infectious Diseases

“…[53] Another example is reported by Choi et al, in which NIR controlled "ON-OFF"m otion of stomatocyte nanomotors powered by the conversion of H 2 O 2 are used to photothermally ablate the cancer cells ( Figure 9B). [54] Trypan blue is used to label dead cells, allowingt oe stimate thus the extento fk illing. As shown in Figure9B, most of the cells were alive without being stained by trypan blue before the NIR light irradiation.…”

Polymersomes: Breaking the Glass Ceiling?

“…Consequently, the promise to create self‐propelled systems capable of autonomous transport has been truly stimulating. Since the fabrication of a micro‐sized motor by Ismagilov et al, rapid developments have led to micro‐ and nano‐sized motors capable of utilizing chemical, optical, rheological, or ultrasonic energy sources to achieve taxis . Recent reviews on this burgeoning field highlight these developments, and show that the complexity of these nanomotors cannot be understated .…”

Wireless Manipulation of Magnetic/Piezoelectric Micromotors for Precise Neural Stem‐Like Cell Stimulation

“…Thus, a noninvasive, safe, and controllable system that is capable of providing precise and effective neuronal stimulation is highly desirable. Wirelessly powered micro‐ and nanomotors, or miniaturized devices propelled by external stimuli (such as magnetic, light, ultrasonic, or electric fields), have exhibited good potential in terms of navigation precision toward the desired destination. With their advantages of on‐demand motion control, long life span, and good biocompatibility, these motor systems are suitable candidates as noninvasive and precise platforms .…”