Rare‐Earth‐Based Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy

ABSTRACT Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, making the pursuit of effective treatments to prolong patient survival a major concern in modern medicine. Rare‐earth‐based nanomaterials (RENMs) possess unique optical properties, catalytic properties, and high X‐rays absorption capabilities, offering diverse approaches for cancer therapy. Herein, this review highlights various strategies for cancer treatment by exploiting the physical and chemical properties of RENMs. Their fluorescent properties can be harnessed for fluorescence image‐guided tumor resection, as well as for light‐triggered photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT) and gas therapy. Additionally, the catalytic properties of RENMs enable the development of novel nanoenzymes for enzyme‐catalyzed therapies. Their high X‐rays absorption capabilities allow for enhanced radiotherapy. Moreover, rare earth ions can be applied to create novel functional nanoformulations for drug delivery and immunotherapy through coordinating with functional biomolecules. Furthermore, the challenges and further prospects of utilizing RENMs in cancer treatment are briefly discussed.