Precise Tumor Photothermal Therapy Guided and Monitored by Magnetic Resonance/Photoacoustic Imaging using A Safe and pH-Responsive Fe(III) Complex

Photothermal agents with strong near infrared (NIR) optical absorbance and excellent biocompatibility and traceability are highly desired for precise photothermal therapy. This study reports the development of a dual-functional Fe3+ complex (Fe-ZDS) for imaging-guided, precise photothermal therapy of tumors. The complex has stable structure and obvious zwitterionic features, resulting in excellent biocompatibility and efficient renal clearance. The iron-dopa core structure renders the complex capable of generating magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast, while synergistically exhibiting optical absorption in the red and NIR regions. Interestingly, the optical absorption of the complex is pH-sensitive, with significantly higher absorption intensity in a weakly acidic environment than in a neutral environment. Thus the complex can respond to acidic tumor stimuli and confine the energy of the laser to the tumor tissue. The MRI contrast and photoacoustic signal of the complex is taken advantage of to monitor the probe injection process and optimize the injection position and dosage for maximally covering the tumor tissue and assessing the activation of the complex in tumor tissues. The evolution of temperature inside the tissue during the laser irradiation is also monitored. Using Fe-ZDS as the theranostic probe, satisfactory treatment outcomes are achieved for photothermal therapy of tumors.

Automated summary

The Fe-ZDS complex developed in this study is a dual-functional agent with excellent biocompatibility and efficient renal clearance. It is capable of imaging-guided, precise photothermal therapy of tumors and exhibits higher optical absorption intensity in weakly acidic environments.