A near-infrared light-responsive nanocomposite for photothermal release of H2S and suppression of cell viability

Abstract

A near-infrared light triggered photothermal H₂S-release platform was developed using a combination of photothermal nanoparticles and thermo-labile precursors, and was exploited for synchronous photothermal stimulation and gas release to suppress cell viability. Polyethyleneimine-dithiocarbamate as a H₂S donor was assembled on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets by electrostatic adsorption. In the nanocomposites, rGO nanosheets converted near-infrared light into thermal energy and activated the H₂S donor to produce H₂S. Synchronous photothermal stimulation and H₂S gas release resulted in effective killing of cancer cells. This work presents an effective method that suppresses the growth of tumour cells and leads to an improved anti-cell proliferation outcome. Near-infrared light-triggered photothermal stimulation, in combination with H₂S gas generation, may offer an effective strategy to further develop a cancer synergistic treatment platform.