Biologically Safe, Versatile, and Smart Bismuthene Functionalized with a Drug Delivery System Based on Red Phosphorus Quantum Dots for Cancer Theranostics

Two-dimensional nanomaterials are attracting attention for cancer therapy. However, high toxicity, insensitivity to external stimuli and single therapeutic modality are still key issues hindering their clinical application. Therefore, the construction of a safe, intelligent and versatile nanocomposite is needed to meet clinical expectations. Herein, we developed a nanocomposite of Bi@RP-PEG-DOX with 2D bismuthene loaded with 0D red phosphorus quantum dots and DOX. The nanocomposite with DOX loading capacity (ca. 250 %) and photothermal conversion efficiency (ca. 54 %) showed both photothermal and photodynamic effects and a sensitive response of drug release to the acidic tumor microenvironment or NIR II laser irradiation. The nanocomposite exhibits good biosafety. Through the X-ray attenuation properties of bismuth, the nanocomposite serves as an excellent CT contrast agent, providing potential to perform CT-guided therapy.

Automated summary

Two-dimensional nanomaterials have the potential for cancer therapy, but their high toxicity and lack of sensitivity to external stimuli have hindered their clinical application. In this study, a nanocomposite of Bi@RP-PEG-DOX was developed, which showed both photothermal and photodynamic effects and a sensitive response to the tumor microenvironment or NIR II laser irradiation. The nanocomposite also exhibited good biosafety and potential as a CT contrast agent for CT-guided therapy.