Multifaceted Functional Liposomes: Theranostic Potential of Liposomal Indocyanine Green and Doxorubicin for Enhanced Anticancer Efficacy and Imaging.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Liposomal drug formulations improve anticancer treatment efficacy and reduce toxicity by altering pharmacokinetics and biodistribution. Indocyanine Green (ICG), an FDA-approved near-infrared imaging agent, exhibits photosensitivity, photothermal effects, and potential ferroptosis induction, enhancing anticancer activity. Doxorubicin (DOX), widely used for treating breast, ovarian, and liver cancers, is limited by cardiotoxicity, requiring dosage control. Incorporating ICG and DOX into liposomes enables medical imaging, controlled drug release, reduced administration frequency, and fewer side effects. This study aims to develop liposomes encapsulating both ICG and DOX and evaluate their theranostic potential in in vitro and in vivo lung adenocarcinoma models. Methods: Liposomes containing ICG and DOX (Lipo-ICG/DOX) were synthesized using an active loading method and characterized for size (~140 nm), lipid, and drug concentrations. In vitro studies using A549 lung cancer cells assessed liposome uptake via fluorescence microscopy, while in vivo xenograft models evaluated therapeutic efficacy. Results: Lipo-ICG/DOX showed uptake in A549 cells, with ICG localizing in lysosomes and DOX in nuclei. Treatment reduced cell viability significantly by day three. In vivo imaging demonstrated the retention of liposomes in tumor sites, with ICG signals observed in the liver and intestines, indicating metabolic routes. When combined with 780 nm light exposure, liposomes slowed tumor growth over 12 days. Mechanistic studies revealed combined ferroptosis and apoptosis induction. Conclusions: Lipo-ICG/DOX demonstrates strong theranostic potential, integrating imaging and therapy for lung adenocarcinoma. This multifunctional formulation offers a promising strategy for improving cancer treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects.