Recent advances of cyanine dyes in tumor theranostics: molecular modification, delivery strategies, and synergistic mechanisms

Abstract

The phototheranostic system has garnered significant attention due to its dual functionality of combining imaging and treatment. Moreover, while achieving non-invasive, real-time imaging and precise spatiotemporal controlled treatment, it also maintains low toxicity to normal tissues. Among the phototheranostic systems, cyanine dyes are a kind of ideal near-infrared (NIR) photosensitizer for phototheranostics. However, challenges still remain in terms of photostability, tumor selectivity, and diagnostic and treatment efficiency. This review summarizes advances of cyanine dye-based phototheranostics in tumor diagnosis and treatment over the past five years, with a focus on molecular modifications and nanostructure construction, delivery strategies, and synergistic mechanisms in integrated platforms for enhancing functionality. The review also looks ahead to future opportunities and challenges of cyanine dyes in tumor theranostics.