Synthesis of Janus gold-magnetic nanoparticles for photothermal cancer therapy

Abstract Background . Tumoricidal photothermal therapies by multimodal nanoplatforms with spatiotemporal precision have gained much attention in recent years, however, developing biocompatible, multifunctional nanosystems for real-time tumor targeting and therapy monitoring remains a critical need. Methods . A novel class of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-specific aptamers modified Janus gold-coated magnetic nanoparticles (GMN) was engineered as a multifunctional nanoplatform for tumor-targeted multimodal imaging and photothermal therapy in this study. Results . The unique Janus nanostructure features of the strategic nanosystem enables dual functionality, firstly for magnetic resonance imaging guidance through the superparamagnetic nanoparticles, secondly for active tumor targeting combined with near-infrared-responsive photothermal ablation mediated by the gold nanostructure. Conclusions . The demonstrated synergistic capabilities of EGFR aptamer modified GMN established a promising platform for developing next-generation theranostic agents to combine precise cancer diagnosis with spatially controlled therapeutic intervention.