Application of Gold-Based Nanomaterials in Tumor Photothermal Therapy and Chemotherapy

Photothermal therapy (PTT) is a minimally invasive tumor treatment method in which photothermal conversion agents (PTAs) can be enriched in tumor tissue by external light stimulation to convert photon energy into thermal energy to induce the temperature of tumor tissue higher than normal physiological, and can effectively kill tumor cells and tissues while avoiding damage to healthy tissue. As a well-known biocompatible nanomaterial, gold-based nanomaterials have high photothermal conversion efficiency and cross section, which can be used in tumor targeting therapy treatment as a potential photothermal conversion agent. Combining PTT and chemotherapy can be achieved by loading a chemotherapeutic drug modified on the surface of a gold nanomaterials. Therefore, this paper first reviews the preparation and surface functionalization of Au-based nanomaterials, such as Au nanorods, Au nanostars, Au nanoshells, and so on. Second, we have also introduced the application of Au-based nanomaterials in PTT, chemotherapy, and combination therapy. Finally, the limitations and challenges of Au-based photothermal conversion agents are summarized and the development prospects in this field are prospected.