(WO + ICG)@PLGA@lipid/plasmid DNA nanocomplexes as core–shell vectors for synergistic genetic/photothermal therapy†

The synergistic therapeutic strategy of combining gene delivery and photothermal effects as an efficient cancer treatment method has garnered significant attention. Here, we developed a core–shell theragnostic platform ((WO + ICG)@PLGA@PL) capable of simultaneously delivering a fluorescent imaging agent, a photothermal agent, and genes. The self-assembled platform comprises four components: indocyanine green (ICG) for in vivo localization tracking, W₁₈O₄₉ (WO) nanoparticles for photothermal therapy, PLGA as a core for encapsulating ICG and WO, and positive liposomes for DNA interaction and particle stabilization. The results showed that (WO + ICG)@PLGA@PL could not only achieve a synergistic therapy effect of gene delivery and photothermal effect, but also effectively inhibit tumor growth in vivo. Additionally, the (WO + ICG)@PLGA@PL nanocomplex could be a promising tool for next-generation combined gene and photothermal therapy.