Preparation of Hollow Copper Sulfide Nanomaterials Loaded with IR820 and Their Application in Esophageal Cancer Treatment

In this study, CuS-based nanomaterials loaded with the photosensitizer IR820 were synthesized for combined photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for antitumor applications. The CuS nanomaterials exhibit excellent near-infrared (NIR) absorption properties, allowing for rapid conversion of NIR light into heat, thereby inducing photothermal ablation of tumor cells. Meanwhile, IR820, as a photosensitizer, generates a significant amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), under NIR light exposure, thereby mediating PDT-induced apoptosis of tumor cells. The synergistic effect of CuS@PCM@IR820 nanomaterials significantly enhances tumor cell killing, slows tumor growth, and shows minimal side effects on normal tissues. In vitro results demonstrated strong cytotoxicity of the nanomaterials under NIR irradiation, while in vivo experiments confirmed their antitumor efficacy in a mouse tumor model. Overall, CuS@PCM@IR820 nanomaterials offer a novel and effective strategy for combined PTT and PDT, providing a promising approach for cancer therapy.