Polymer/zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 nanosystems for photothermal therapy

초록

Photothermal therapy (PTT) has become a highly regarded, minimally invasive method for treating cancer. This technique utilizes nanosystems that respond to light, producing targeted heat to eliminate cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8), a versatile metal-organic framework, is particularly notable for its structural flexibility, porous nature, and biocompatibility. This review thoroughly examines the latest developments in polymer-modified ZIF-8 nanosystems, focusing on their increased stability, enhanced targeting abilities, and superior photothermal efficiency. We first introduce the principles of PTT, current challenges, and the integration of photothermal therapy with other modalities. The review then details the structural characteristics of ZIF-8, the critical role of polymer functionalization in improving stability, targeting, its photothermal properties, and therapeutic efficiency. Various synthesis and fabrication techniques are analyzed, with an emphasis on sustainable and scalable approaches to construct polymer/ZIF-8 nanocomposites with optimized drug loading capabilities. Mechanistic insights into photothermal conversion, heat generation, and targeted tumor ablation by these nanosystems are discussed, including the modulatory effects of polymer coatings and the influence of environmental factors on therapy efficacy. In addition to recognizing existing literature on MOF-based PTT and ZIF-8 in cancer nanomedicine, this review clarifies the unique contribution of polymer-functionalized ZIF-8 to the field. In vitro studies are reviewed to assess cytotoxicity, cell death pathways, and photothermal efficiency within tumor microenvironments. Finally, the in vivo applications are evaluated in terms of biodistribution, targeting efficiency, therapeutic outcomes, and biocompatibility in preclinical models. Collectively, this review highlights the promise of polymer/ZIF-8 nanosystems as multifunctional platforms for next-generation photothermal cancer therapy, underscoring future research directions to overcome current limitations.

키워드