A scientific paradigm for targeted nanophotothermolysis; the potential for nanosurgery of cancer

Abstract

The application of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in nanophotothermolysis as a great photosensitizer is expanding, and this subject is a challenging area for cancer therapy. Recent technological advances in nanoscale manufacturing and synthesis promise the development of highly beneficial and innovative methods for the targeting of cancer. However, there is an obstacle to conducting effective laser-based nanosurgery because AuNPs are activated by visible or near infrared wavelengths, and the penetration of a laser beam inside the body is limited by some absorbents, such as melanin, water, and blood molecules. Considering everything stated above, we have suggested the application of a folate-conjugated AuNP as an effective agent for targeted nanophotothermolysis and the application of an optical fiber to transport the laser light from the source to the target tissue inside the body. Thus, a new method of nanosurgery in which a surgeon is able to perform surgery at the cellular or even at the subcellular level may be possible. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.