Photoresponsive ruthenium-containing polymers: potential polymeric metallodrugs for anticancer phototherapy

can inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Photoresponsive Ru-containing polymers provide a new platform for combined photodynamic therapy and photoactivated chemotherapy. The design strategies, self-assembly, photoresponsiveness, and anticancer effects of these polymers are introduced. Some remaining challenges for Ru-containing polymers for phototherapy are discussed.