A multifunctional hydrogel containing gold nanorods and methylene blue for synergistic cancer phototherapy

Abstract Currently, the main therapeutic method for cancer is still surgical resection. But tumors are difficult to be completely removed, leading to the recurrence of tumors and serious threat to human health. Thus, it is urgent to find appropriate methods for removing residual cancer. Herein, a multifunctional hydrogel is designed for photothermal therapy (PTT) combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT). Gold nanorods (AuNRs) and methylene blue (MB) were used as the PTT and PDT agents, respectively, and were loaded in hydrogels formed by Gellan Gum. Multiple advantages of this platform include (a) excellent photothermal and photodynamic properties, (b) satisfactory syringeability, (c) controllable mechanical properties and superior stability, (d) good cytocompatibility, (e) prevention of the rapid loss of nanomaterials and (f) good inhibition effect of cancer cells. Consequently, the multifunctional hydrogel has satisfying biocompatibility and high cancer cell ablation efficiency, showing tremendous potential in synergistic anticancer therapy.