Confined in situ polymerization in a nanoscale porphyrinic metal–organic framework for fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic phototherapy

Abstract

Engineering a versatile nanoplatform integrating imaging and therapeutic functions for efficient cancer treatment remains a grand challenge. Herein, a type of metal–organic framework (MOF)-based hybrid material for fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic phototherapy was prepared by in situ polymerization of a pyrrole (Py) monomer in the pores of a porphyrinic MOF. The resultant material (named PPy@MOF-525@HA) has a suitable size for cellular uptake, high degree of thermal stability and efficient photothermal conversion ability (η = 62.1%) upon near-infrared light irradiation, showing great potential for photothermal therapy. In addition, the porphyrinic MOF can trigger the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂) under the irradiation of visible light giving in vitro photodynamic therapy outcomes. Simultaneously, PPy@MOF-525@HA can also act as a contrast agent for cancer cell-specific targeting and fluorescence imaging to provide accurate guidance for cancer treatment. This work provides a promising platform for fluorescence imaging-guided synergistic phototherapy.