Azo-based near-infrared fluorescent theranostic probe for tracking hypoxia-activated cancer chemotherapy in vivo†
Abstract
A novel azo-based near-infrared fluorescent theranostic probe was synthesized, which is selectively activated under hypoxic conditions, resulting in the release of an active anticancer drug and a near-infrared fluorophore turn-on. Notably, the probe has been applied successfully to real-time visualization of drug delivery in 4T1, HepG2 cells, and mice.