Synergistic cancer treatment using porphyrin-based metal-organic Frameworks for photodynamic and photothermal therapy

Recent advancements in multifunctional nanomaterials for cancer therapy have highlighted porphyrin-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as promising candidates due to their unique properties and versatile applications. This overview focuses on the use of porphyrin-based MOFs for combined photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) in cancer treatment. Porphyrin-based MOFs offer high porosity, tuneable structures, and excellent stability, making them ideal for drug delivery and therapeutic applications. The incorporation of porphyrin molecules into the MOF framework enhances light absorption and energy transfer, leading to improved photodynamic and photothermal effects. Additionally, the porosity of MOFs allows for the encapsulation of therapeutic agents, further enhancing efficacy. In PDT, porphyrin-based MOFs generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light activation, destroying cancer cells. The photothermal properties enable the conversion of light energy into heat, resulting in localised hyperthermia and tumour ablation. The combination of PDT and PTT in a single platform offers synergistic effects, leading to better therapeutic outcomes, reduced side effects, and improved selectivity. This dual-modal treatment strategy provides precise spatiotemporal control over the treatment process, paving the way for next-generation therapeutics with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. Further research and optimisation are needed for clinical applications.