A matrix metalloproteinase-responsive iridium(III)-based hydrogel for cancer cell-specific imaging and lysosome-targeted photodynamic therapy

Abstract

A matrix metalloproteinase-sensitive iridium(III)-based hydrogel was designed to selectively deliver lysosome-targeting iridium(III) complexes into cancer cells in response to elevated enzyme activity. Upon light activation, the lysosome-localised complexes induced potent cytotoxicity and inhibited cell migration, demonstrating significant potential for cancer-specific imaging and targeted photodynamic therapy.