One-step assembly of CuMo2S3 nanocrystals for the synergistic effect of photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy

In this study, we fabricated a novel PVP conjugated CuMo2S3 nanocrystal, which can be used as an efficient photosensitizer. The CuMo2S3 nanocrystals were synthesized via a facile one-pot reflux method and exhibited high biocompatibility, strong NIR absorbance, low cytotoxicity, high stability, high photo thermal conversion efficiency, and effective generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, the combined treatments of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PH) generated by the CuMo2S3 nanocrystals under NIR irradiation drastically inhibited tumor growth. Thus, CuMo2S3 nanocrystals have a great potential for synergistic effect of PDT and PTT.