Iron–Curcumin–Polyvinylpyrrolidone Nanoparticles With Dynamic Disassembly and Elimination Abilities for Photothermal/Chemo Combinatorial Therapy

Due to the heterogeneity of the tumor, it is difficult to achieve complete ablation of the tumor by single photothermal treatment. Moreover, their broader use is constrained by the intrinsic high uptake in the reticuloendothelial system (RES) organs, resulting in slow elimination from the body and potential toxicity. In this study, we report a single-step synthetic approach to fabricate versatile FeCP-NPs, leveraging the coordination bonds formed between bioactive polyphenolic compounds (curcumin), Fe III ions, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP). The FeCP-NPs possess the following favorable characteristics: (1) The components of FeCP-NPs originate from natural products, an endogenous element, and an FDA-approved polymer, guaranteeing good biosafety. (2) FeCP-NPs exhibit excellent photothermal properties. (3) After the photothermal treatment is completed, the dynamic disassembly strategy triggered by deferoxamine mesylate (DFO) can induce the dissociation of nanoparticles and achieve rapid clearance in vivo. (4) Curcumin released during the disassembly of FeCP-NPs can be combined with photothermal therapy to achieve complete tumor ablation. A comprehensive analysis of the safety, biodistribution, and clearance patterns of FeCP-NPs is conducted in vitro or in vivo. This work provides a nanoparticle with great clinical translational potential and provides a new solution for inhibiting tumor growth.