Magnetic Microbubbles Combined with ICG-Loaded Liposomes for Synergistic Mild-Photothermal and Ferroptosis-Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy of Melanoma.

Abstract

Background: Melanoma poses a significant threat to human health due to the lack of effective treatment options. Previous studies have demonstrated that the combination of photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) can enhance therapeutic efficacy. However, conventional PTT/PDT combination strategies face various challenges, including complex preparation processes, potential damage to healthy tissues, and insufficient generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study aims to design a rational and efficient PTT/PDT therapeutic strategy for melanoma and to explore its underlying mechanisms.

Methods: We first synthesized two target materials, indocyanine green-targeted liposomes (ICG-Lips) and magnetic microbubbles (MMBs), using the thin-film hydration method, followed by characterization and performance evaluation of both materials. Subsequently, we evaluated the synergistic therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of ICG-Lips combined with MMBs in melanoma treatment through in vitro experiments using cellular models and in vivo experiments using animal models.

Results: Herein, we developed a multifunctional system comprising ICG-Lips and MMBs. ICG-Lips enhance targeted delivery through specific binding to the S100B protein on melanoma cells, while MMBs, via ultrasound (US)-induced cavitation effects, shorten the uptake time of ICG-Lips by melanoma cells and improve uptake efficiency. Furthermore, the combination of ICG-Lips and MMBs induces significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Under 808 nm laser irradiation, the accumulation of ICG-Lips in melanoma cells achieves mild photothermal therapy (mPTT) and PDT effects. The elevated temperature and excessive ROS generated during these processes result in glutathione (GSH) depletion, ultimately triggering ferroptosis. The occurrence of ferroptosis further amplifies PDT efficacy, creating a synergistic effect that effectively suppresses melanoma growth. Additionally, the combined therapeutic strategy of ICG-Lips and MMBs demonstrates excellent biosafety.

Conclusion: In summary, this study presents a novel and straightforward strategy that integrates mPTT, PDT, and ferroptosis synergistically to combat melanoma, thereby laying a solid foundation for improving melanoma treatment outcomes.