INTRODUCTION:Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) is a serine/threonine kinase that is involved in the synthesis of glycogen. Among the inhibitors, thiazolidinediones (TZDs) can specifically bind to GSK-3β. They act non-competitively with ATP, and as a result, they are very specific and have fewer side effects. In this research, new TZDs were designed and synthesized, and then their inhibitory effects on GSK-3β enzyme and tau aggregation were investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS:The structure of the compounds was confirmed using 1H-NMR, 13CNMR, and LC-MASS. The inhibitory activities of the compounds 5a-p, against GSK-3β were evaluated using Z'-LYTE technique, and the IC50 values were determined. RESULTS:Compound 5l (R1 = Me, R2 = 4-F-benzyl, R3 = butyl) with IC50 of 16.1 μM exhibited the most potent inhibition. Also, the binding with tau protein and their inhibitory effects on the accumulation of recombinant human tau protein (1N4R, htau34) were evaluated using the Surface Plasmon Response (SPR) method. In this study also the impact of TZDs on tau aggregation using the Thioflavin T (ThT) assay was investigated. PC12 cells viability study confirmed the neuroprotective effects of compounds against tau aggregates. MD simulation studies showed the interaction of 5l with the active site of GSK-3β (PDB ID: 2OW3) and also its destructive effect on tau aggregate (PDB ID: 5O3L) was studied. CONCLUSION:Overall, the study identified three promising TZDs with potential as inhibitors of GSK-3β and tau proteins, highlighting compound 5l as particularly effective in stabilizing GSK- 3β and disrupting tau aggregation.
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-based aptasensors have become a robust class of enzyme-amplified biosensing systems that synergistically combine the catalytic efficiency of ALP with the exceptional specificity and programmability of aptamers. Owing to its high turnover rate, broad substrate versatility, robust stability, and cost-effectiveness, ALP serves as an efficient signal transducer capable of converting phosphate-containing substrates into readily detectable products. Aptamers offer distinct advantages over antibodies, including strong target affinity, structural adaptability, low immunogenicity, and straightforward chemical modification. Through the catalytic dephosphorylation of substrates by ALP, target-binding events facilitated by conformational changes, competitive displacement, or structural rearrangements are effectively converted into significantly enhanced detection signals within these systems. This enzymatic process enables the generation of electroactive, fluorescent, chemiluminescent, or chromogenic outputs, supporting a wide range of detection modalities such as electrochemical, colorimetric, fluorescent, chemiluminescent, and photoelectrochemical sensing. Recent advances in substrate engineering, nucleic acid design, and interfacial chemistry have significantly improved sensitivity, expanded dynamic range, and enhanced assay reliability. Moreover, the incorporation of functional nanomaterials and cascade amplification strategies has further boosted signal output and enabled accurate detection in complex sample matrices. Despite ongoing challenges related to nonspecific interference, reproducibility, and standardization, ALP-based aptasensors hold substantial promise for applications in environmental monitoring, clinical diagnostics, and food safety. This review aims to summarize recent progress in ALP-based aptasensor design, highlight key strategies for signal amplification and performance optimization, and discuss current challenges alongside future perspectives in this field.
Chemo-photothermal therapy (chemo-PTT), which integrates chemotherapy with photothermal ablation, has emerged as a promising strategy for enhancing antitumor efficacy compared with single-modality treatments. However, aggressive malignancies such as melanoma still demand more efficient targeted and imaging-guided therapeutic platforms. The aim of this study was to develop a near-infrared (NIR)-responsive theranostic nanoplatform capable of targeted drug delivery, controlled release, and synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy. For this purpose, gold nanostars (AuNSts) were coated with a thin mesoporous organosilica layer (MOSNPs), followed by doxorubicin (DOX) encapsulation to form AuNSts@MOSNPs@DOX. To improve biocompatibility and prolong systemic circulation, the nanoparticles were further encapsulated in B16F0 cancer cell membranes (CCM), thereby serving as a biomimetic gatekeeper. Finally, Sgc-8c aptamer conjugation yielded the targeted construct, Apt-AuNSts@MOSNPs@DOX@CCM, for melanoma-specific delivery. Notably, this work presents a novel dual-responsive and biomimetic strategy that combines cancer cell membrane camouflage with aptamer-mediated active targeting, thereby enhancing tumor specificity and enabling imaging-guided chemo-photothermal therapy. The nanoplatform exhibited a high DOX loading capacity (31.79% ± 5.4) and loading efficiency (79.45% ± 13.5), along with NIR- triggered drug release. In vitro studies on B16F0 melanoma cells demonstrated significantly increased cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of the aptamer-functionalized nanoparticles under chemo-PTT conditions compared with non-targeted systems (p < 0.001). In vivo evaluation in melanoma-bearing mice revealed that Apt-AuNSts@MOSNPs@DOX@CCM combined with 808 nm laser irradiation induced complete tumor regression, achieved 100% survival, and enhanced computed tomography contrast. Overall, this multifunctional nanoplatform offers a promising targeted, imaging-guided strategy for effective melanoma therapy.
This study aimed to investigate the use of dual targeting of cancer cells by Mg/N-doped carbon quantum dot (CQD), Folic acid (FA), and Hyaluronic acid (HA) complex, simultaneously with photodynamic therapy by silver nanoparticle photosensitizers (Ag NPs). CQDs were synthesized by the hydrothermal method, and dual modification of the surface was done using FA and HA. Ag NPs with polyethylene imine (PEI) coating were synthesized and conjugated with CQD-FA-HA complex. Finally, anticancer drug, Epirubicin (EPI) was encapsulated in the final complex (CQD-FA-HA-PEI-Ag NPs-EPI). Cytotoxicity of the final complex was assessed on 4T1, MCF-7, and CHO cell lines with and without laser exposure. Moreover, the effectiveness of the formulation was examined in BALB/c mice with breast cancer tumors. Results showed successful creation of 15nm hexagonal silver nanoparticles with significant absorption at 523nm in the near-infrared range. The zeta potential of Ag NPs changed from -16.7mV to +49.4mV after being treated with PEI. CQDs were effectively synthesized and seamlessly linked with FA and HA. CQD-FA-HA were conjugated with PEI-coated Ag NPs, and the EPI drug was loaded on this structure. The final complex had a particle size of less than 200nm with an EPI entrapment efficiency of 92%. In vitro experiments demonstrated biocompatibility, cellular uptake, and phototherapeutic efficacy of CQD-FA-HA-PEI-Ag NPs-EPI nanocarriers. Furthermore, in vivo studies revealed that application of these particles followed by laser irradiation resulted in complete tumor regression after 15 days. Results highlighted the excellent therapeutic efficacy of the synthesized nanocarrier and emphasized its potential for cancer treatment. In conclusion, this work demonstrates a multifunctional nanoplatform that integrates dual-targeted delivery (FA/HA), epirubicin chemotherapy, and photodynamic activity of Ag nanoparticles within a single system, representing a significant advancement over conventional nanocarriers.
Tumor oxygenation plays a crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of sono-photodynamic therapy (SPDT). This study aimed to develop Iron-porphyrin-loaded, oxygen-filled, 4T1 cancer cell membrane-based vesicles (NB-POR) as a novel theranostic platform for SPDT to enhance tumor eradication and provide ultrasound contrast. NB-POR with a size of 253.71 ± 20.90 nm exhibited controlled in vitro POR release, which was significantly accelerated after laser irradiation (reaching 100% release after 120 h) or ultrasound pulsing (reaching 100% release after 72 h). In vitro investigations demonstrated that NB-POR can generate hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen. In a parallel experiment, intracellular ROS generation was also significantly enhanced upon laser and ultrasound radiation. In vitro assessment of metastatic breast cancer cells (4T1) from mice showed greater cellular toxicity and apoptosis induction by NB-POR following combined laser and ultrasound irradiation. Flow cytometry demonstrated the targeting capability of the 4T1 cell membrane-based carrier toward 4T1 cells. In vivo therapeutic efficacy against 4T1 tumor-bearing BALB/c mice showed very effective anti-cancer activity of this system after combined SPDT, with 3 out of 4 mice cured and tumor-free at the end of the experiment. The safety of this treatment strategy was demonstrated by 100% survival and no significant weight loss. The diagnostic performance of this platform was also investigated in vitro and in vivo, yielding pronounced ultrasound contrast. Overall, the results provided valuable insights supporting the potential clinical application of Iron-porphyrin-loaded, Oxygen-filled biomimetic nanobubble systems for combination therapy.
Herein, an efficient colorimetric aptasensor has been introduced for highly sensitive measurement of lead (II) ions (Pb2+) by integrating the advantages of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) system, the rolling circle amplification (RCA) process, and the catalytic activity of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for the first time. The presence of Pb2+ inactivates the CRISPR system, making it unable to cleave the complementary sequence (CS) on the surface of ferrofluids (FFDs) and the formation of RCA product. By trapping AuNPs inside the RCA mass and subsequent magnetic separation of FFDs, the supernatant color remains yellow after adding 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). In the absence of Pb2+, the supernatant color changes to colorless, due to the activation of CRISPR-Cas12a and the lack of large DNA structures. The colorimetric aptasensor can monitor Pb2+ ions in the concentration ranges of 0.1 pM-20 nM and 20 nM-800 nM with a detection limit of 0.024 pM. It can also quantify Pb2+ in the biological, cosmetic, and marine samples.
OBJECTIVE:To review the design strategies and therapeutic applications of transformable nanosystems in cancer therapy. SIGNIFICANCE OF REVIEW:Conventional nanosystems face limitations in tumor penetration, cellular uptake, immune evasion, and adaptability to the tumor microenvironment. Transformable nanosystems can dynamically respond to tumor-specific stimuli, improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity. KEY FINDINGS:Recent studies on transformable nanosystems were reviewed, focusing on stimuli-responsive mechanisms, therapeutic applications, theranostics, and strategies to overcome metastasis and multidrug resistance. Transformable nanosystems improved tumor penetration, cellular uptake, controlled drug release, immune modulation, and therapeutic efficacy through mechanisms such as size reduction, charge reversal, shell detachment, and morphology transformation. CONCLUSIONS:Transformable nanosystems are promising next-generation platforms for cancer therapy; however, challenges related to safety, scalability, and clinical translation remain.
This review examines the applications of indirect lateral flow assays (ILFAs) and indirect ELISA-based LFAs as robust, paper-based diagnostic platforms for the identification of contaminants in food products. ILFAs employ antibodies, aptamers, and their hybrid composites combined with molecularly imprinted polymers to deliver a cost-effective diagnostic tool. Capable of detecting biological and chemical adulterants within 3 to 30 min, these assays enable efficient identification directly at the point-of-care. The operational principles, the functions of different components, and various assay formats of ILFAs are elaborated, with particular focus on their suitability for monitoring complex food matrices. This review highlights recent progress in ILFA technology, focusing on innovative signal amplification methods and novel labeling techniques designed to enhance sensitivity and reproducibility in food safety testing. Continued developments in ILFA offer significant potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and accessibility within the food industry, thereby supporting stronger regulatory compliance and advancing public health protection.
Neurological disorders are complex and often very challenging for patients. Many of these conditions result from mutations in genes that are essential for normal function. Most existing treatments only alleviate symptoms, highlighting the urgent need for more effective therapeutic strategies. In the current drug development landscape, gene therapy offers hope as a promising approach. Specifically, CRISPR-Cas9 technology enables precise gene editing across diverse cell types and organisms. An increasing number of research groups are investigating innovative therapies and the molecular mechanisms behind neurological diseases. This review highlights the use of CRISPR-based gene therapies for various brain diseases, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, stroke, and brain tumors. It consistently recognizes significant challenges in clinical applications, including overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB), managing off-target effects, ensuring efficient delivery, and addressing immunogenicity and ethical concerns.
As a four-stranded DNA structure which forms within cytosine (C)-rich sequences, the i-motif introduces a state-of-the-art pH-responsive targeting agent having remarkable ability in drug delivery systems (DDSs). Upon exposure to slightly acidic environments, these sequences exhibit a significant tendency to fold into the intramolecular i-motif structure, normally with three loop style, supplying potent drug carriers. The conformational flexibility, easy modification, symmetrical architecture, and intrinsic biocompatibility of C-rich sequences strongly support their usage in drug delivery applications. Particularly, conjugation of C-rich sequences with different inorganic nanoparticles or organic fragments improves their efficacy as nanocarriers by providing increased biocompatibility, reduced cytotoxicity, and enhanced stability. The i-motif-based systems are utilized for both their cancer detection and therapeutic interventions. Although i-motifs have become a promising platform for exploring pH-responsive systems, comprehensive reviews discussing their progress in developing targeted and non-targeted drug delivery systems and biosensors are still lacking. In this timely update we aim to supply an in-depth analysis of the progress, with the goal of inspiring innovative strategies for designing targeting/non-targeting systems that benefit from i-motifs as pH-responsive agents in combination with different types of nanocarriers for enhanced cancer diagnosis and treatment.
MicroRNAs (miRs) are central regulators of tumor initiation and progression, and their aberrant expression patterns have been identified as clinically valuable biomarkers for the early diagnosis of malignancies and prognostic evaluation. Here, we report tag-free fluorescence biosensing platform for the detection of circulating miRs in serum, targeting microRNA-21 (miR-21) and microRNA-10b (miR-10b) as clinically relevant oncogenic markers. The assay integrates CRISPR/Cas12a-mediated signal regulation with complementary strand (CS)-mediated target recognition. In this strategy, target miRs hybridize with the CS, thereby preventing CS-mediated activation of the Cas12a-crRNA complex. As a result, Cas12a collateral cleavage is suppressed, the G-quadruplex reporter remains intact, and Thioflavin T fluorescence is enhanced. The platform demonstrated excellent sequence discrimination capability, effectively distinguishing closely related and mismatched targets. Sensitive quantification was achieved with limits of detection of 1.4 nM for miR-21 and 852 pM for miR-10b. Importantly, robust analytical performance was maintained in complex biological matrices, confirming its applicability to serum samples. Collectively, this CRISPR/Cas12a-enabled fluorescent biosensor provides a simple approach for circulating miR detection.
Herein, a three-component reaction was used for the synthesis of imidazole-pyran derivatives (4a-n) through the reaction between imidazol-5-carbaldehyde (1a-n), malononitrile (2), and methyl acetoacetate (3). The reaction process was simple, quick, proceeded without the need for any purification technique and used green solvents. The synthesized substances (4a-n) were evaluated for their potential anticancer effects on the MCF-7 (breast cancer), HT29 (colon cancer), and A2780cis (cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer) cell lines, and a control normal cell line, CHO (Chinese hamster ovary). Notably, compounds 4e and 4h demonstrated pronounced effects on the MCF-7 cell line, with an IC50 value of 11.74 ± 0.17 µM and 9.44 ± 0.17 µM, respectively. Compounds 4e and 4h also showed appropriate toxicity in the HT-29 and A2780cis cell lines. These two compounds (4e and 4h) also demonstrated the ability to suppress colony formation and trigger apoptosis in MCF-7 cells. Additionally, in silico studies, such as molecular docking and molecular dynamics, were conducted on VEGFR2. This approach investigated the interaction and binding types of the synthesized compounds in the receptor, their stability, and the change in the protein structure during molecular docking and molecular dynamics.
Wounds pose a significant challenge to both healthcare and the economy, as current therapies often fail to address the complex biology of healing. Exosomes derived from fetal tissue, enriched with regenerative microRNAs and proteins, have demonstrated strong potential in promoting wound repair. Melatonin is an indoleamine with multiple effects, including antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. It has been shown to promote tissue regeneration; however, it degrades rapidly and has low bioavailability. This study investigates the potential of melatonin-loaded fetal tissue-derived exosomes (MEL@EXO) combined with a pH-responsive, biocompatible hydrogel composed of chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), hyaluronic acid (HA), and glycerin to accelerate full-thickness wound healing. Fetal tissue-derived exosomes were isolated from Wistar rat fetal tissues using differential centrifugation and PEG-induced extraction. Melatonin was encapsulated by electroporation. Exosomes had the expected size, globular shape, stability, and high melatonin-loading efficiency. The hydrogel was prepared by gradually adding PVP to chitosan dissolved in citric acid under constant stirring, followed by the incorporation of HA and glycerin. The hydrogel showed a pH-responsive sol-gel transition and porous architecture, enabling sustained exosome release. Cytotoxicity evaluation on Human Dermal Fibroblast (HDF cell line) confirmed that the MEL@EXO hydrogel and its components exhibited no cytotoxic effects. Furthermore, the hemolysis test revealed no significant hemolysis, confirming the biocompatibility of the composite. In vivo, MEL@EXO hydrogel accelerated wound closure compared to the control and single-component groups. Histological studies revealed that wounds treated with MEL@EXO were undergoing re-epithelialization, thick collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. These findings support the potential of the MEL@EXO hydrogel as a robust and versatile platform for full-thickness wound healing.
To overcome the limitations of single-modality therapies, this study developed a smart, light-and pH-responsive polymeric nanotheranostic platform for synergistic chemo-photothermal treatment (CPTT) of murine breast cancer. In this regard, a novel amphiphilic folate-conjugated Pluronic F127-poly(beta-amino ester) copolymer was synthesized, providing an optimized hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (fEO = 27%) for self-assembly to vesicular architectures with a critical micelle concentration (CMC) of 25 mu g/mL. Using the thin-film hydration technique, the copolymer was converted into uniform, spherical, and dual-stimuli-responsive polymersomes co-loaded with DOX and ICG, exhibiting high colloidal stability and encapsulation efficiency (>95%). Folic acid (FA) functionalization enabled active targeting to folate receptor-overexpressing 4 T1 murine breast cancer cells, while near-infrared (NIR, 808 nm) irradiation of encapsulated ICG generated localized hyperthermia and facilitated NIR fluorescence imaging both in vitro and in vivo. The system demonstrated pH-dependent accelerated DOX release under acidic environment and light-triggered release upon NIR exposure. In vitro studies showed markedly greater cytotoxicity and cellular internalization with the dual chemo-PTT approach than with single-modality DOX-based chemotherapy. In vivo, intravenous injection of the FA-targeted DOX-ICG-loaded polymersomes followed by 808 nm laser irradiation resulted in complete and sustained tumor suppression in 4 T1 tumor-bearing mice, outperforming the non-irradiated formulation and free DOX. NIR imaging confirmed tumor-specific accumulation and diagnostic capability at 6 and 24 h post-administration, with ex vivo organ analysis supporting favorable biodistribution. These findings establish this multifunctional polymersome nanoplatform as a promising nanotheranostic agent for integrated imaging-guided synergistic CPTT in breast cancer, with potential for translation to refractory or aggressive subtypes.
EpCAM-targeted MoS 2 /MnO 2 /ICG nanoparticles enable GSH-responsive drug release, multimodal imaging, and laser-triggered photothermal/photodynamic therapy for breast cancer suppression.
Effective wound healing is often hindered by hypoxia, inflammation, and impaired angiogenesis. Although mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapies have shown potential, their clinical application remains limited. As a result, MSC-derived exosomes, particularly adipose-derived stem cell exosomes (ADSC-Exos), have been proposed as a cell-free alternative; however, they still face limitations, including suboptimal efficiency in targeted delivery. To address these critical obstacles in existing regenerative therapies, we isolated ADSC-Exos from adipose tissue and fabricated a novel ultrasound-responsive, carbomer-based hydrogel incorporating oxygen-enriched ADSC-Exo nanobubbles (Gel-Exo-NB+US). The preclinical wound-healing potential of the developed nanohydrogel was evaluated using a full-thickness wound model in Wistar rats. The engineered hydrogel exhibited favorable physicochemical properties, including shear-thinning and thixotropic behavior, enabling efficient topical application and enhanced tissue adhesion. In a rat full-thickness skin defect model, the combined Gel-Exo-NB and Gel-Exo-NB + US treatments achieved the highest wound-closure rate among all groups, with enhanced re-epithelialization, a reduced scar index, elevated CD31 and α-SMA expression, increased fibroblast proliferation, and increased blood vessel formation. Furthermore, unprecedented hair-follicle regeneration and abundant collagen deposition were observed in the Gel-Exo-NB + US-treated group compared with the Gel-Exo-NB-treated group, highlighting the pivotal role of ultrasound in skin defect regeneration. Notably, the resulting collagen deposition, abundant hair follicles, and thin epidermis suggest potential for scarless wound healing. These therapeutic outcomes are attributed to the synergistic effects of simultaneous ultrasound-mediated exosome therapy and oxygen delivery.
Bimetallic nanozymes integrated with aptamers have emerged as a promising platform in biosensing, combining the superior catalytic performance of dual-metal nanostructures with the exquisite molecular recognition of aptamers. The synergistic interplay between two metal components enhances catalytic efficiency, electron transfer, and structural stability beyond that of monometallic nanozymes. Coupled with aptamers, these systems enable rapid, accurate, and cost-effective detection of diverse analytes in complex matrices. This review delineates the fundamental catalytic mechanisms of bimetallic nanozymes alongside principles of aptamer-based target recognition. Key design considerations, including nanozyme composition, metal-organic framework engineering, aptamer selection and immobilization, and strategies for modulating catalytic activity, are critically examined. Diverse signal transduction modalities-colorimetric, fluorescence, electrochemical, and photoelectrochemical-are compared for sensitivity, selectivity, and practicality. The applications of these sensing systems are then summarized across antibiotics, toxins, disease biomarkers, cells, exosomes and microorganisms with emphasis on analytical performance in real samples. Persistent challenges, including limited biocompatibility, aptamer degradation, physiological instability, and fabrication complexity, are highlighted. Future directions emphasize dual-mode and multiplexed sensing, nuclease-resistant aptamer engineering, antifouling surface modifications, simplified assay formats, and rigorous large-scale validation. Collectively, this review provides a framework to guide the rational design and clinical translation of bimetallic nanozyme-aptamer biosensors.
Chirality in chemistry refers to the inherent ability of molecules to have two distinct forms or enantiomers that are irreplaceable mirror images of each other. In the building blocks of life, such as proteins and sugars, one enantiomer typically predominates, highlighting the importance of chirality. However, traditional analytical techniques, such as optical rotation scattering, often suffer from low sensitivity. Also, many chiral biomolecules only show detectable responses in the UV range, resulting in weak signal generation. Synthetic biology plays a crucial role in advancing the detection of chiral compounds, particularly through the innovative use of aptamers. Given that many biological and medicinal molecules exist in chiral forms, the integration of aptamers into biosensors (aptasensors) significantly enhances the efficiency of identifying and analyzing these compounds. This review discusses the innovative design strategies and advanced technologies of aptasensors for detecting enantiomers and facilitating chiral separation. Finally, we will address the technical challenges of each approach, propose effective solutions, and offer future outlooks for the application of aptamer-based platforms in the simultaneous and real-time detection of chiral mixtures.
Blocking the PD-1/PD-L1 (Programmed Cell Death Protein-1/Programmed Cell Death Ligand-1) pathway represents a pivotal approach in cancer immunotherapy, effectively promoting sustained antitumor immune responses while alleviating immunosuppressive mechanisms. Advancing novel technologies to enhance the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 blockade remains a critical focus in medical research. Nonetheless, challenges such as immune-related adverse effects, therapeutic resistance, and high treatment costs highlight the urgent need for innovative strategies that optimize clinical outcomes and accessibility. Aptamers are short, single-stranded oligonucleotides characterized by their high affinity and specificity for target molecules. Emerging as promising alternatives to traditional antibody-based therapies, they offer new avenues in cancer treatment. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of aptamer-driven strategies aimed at inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint pathway. It summarizes recent advances in the design of PD-1/PD-L1-targeted aptamer systems and evaluates their potential to enhance therapeutic efficacy while addressing challenges related to immune resistance.
The poor cure rates and elevated mortality linked to cancers present a considerable threat to human health. The incorporation of diverse treatment modalities presents a hopeful method for combating cancer. In this research, a nanocomplex was engineered consisting of pH-responsive carbon dot (PCD) conjugated with the AS1411 aptamer, encapsulated within red blood cell membrane (RBCM)-coated Hollow Gold nanoparticle (HAu), and loaded with mitoxantrone (MTO). This system is designed to react specifically to the tumor microenvironment, enabling synergistic photothermal and chemotherapeutic treatment for cancer. The findings from fluorescence imaging indicated that the nanocomplex is capable of effectively concentrating in tumor locations. Within the acidic microenvironment of tumors, PCDs-Apt-RBCM-HAu released MTO, thereby initiating chemotherapy to eliminate tumor cells. Additionally, when subjected to an 808 nm laser, the pH-sensitive nanocomplexes exhibited a photothermal effect, facilitating an efficient hyperthermia treatment for colon cancer. These nanocomplexes are characterized by simple synthesis, low toxicity, regulated drug release, and imaging-assisted treatment, emphasizing their promise for accurate and effective combination therapies within biomedical fields.