One-step assembly of CuMo2S3 nanocrystals for the synergistic effect of photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy

Abstract

In this study, we fabricated a novel PVP conjugated CuMo₂S₃ nanocrystal, which can be used as an efficient photosensitizer. The CuMo₂S₃ nanocrystals were synthesized via a facile one-pot reflux method and exhibited high biocompatibility, strong NIR absorbance, low cytotoxicity, high stability, high photothermal conversion efficiency, and effective generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, the combined treatments of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) generated by the CuMo₂S₃ nanocrystals under NIR irradiation drastically inhibited tumor growth. Thus, CuMo₂S₃ nanocrystals have a great potential for synergistic effect of PDT and PTT.