Recent progress on molecularly near-infrared fluorescent probes for chemotherapy and phototherapy

Recently, molecularly fluorophores for nanotheranostics, bridging in vivo imaging and therapeutic capability within unimolecular system, has attracted increasing attention. Compared with the visible fluorescence imaging, near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging possesses unique advantages including low background, deep penetration, and minimal damage to biological tissues. Based on the typical high-performance fluorophores, we highlight the recent progress on molecularly NIR fluorescent probes for in vivo chemotherapy and phototherapy with a particular focus on their design strategy and functionalization. Current challenges and future perspectives of molecularly NIR fluorescent theranostics in bringing forth clinical applications for personalized treatment are also discussed. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Recent advances in molecularly NIR fluorescent probes for nanotheranostics have attracted increasing attention due to their potential in bridging in vivo imaging and therapeutic capability within a unimolecular system. The unique advantages of near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging, such as low background, deep penetration, and minimal tissue damage, make it a promising tool for in vivo chemotherapy and phototherapy. The focus is on design strategy and functionalization of high-performance fluorophores, with discussions on current challenges and future prospects in bringing forth clinical applications for personalized treatment.