NYU Abu Dhabi Builds Light Based Nanoparticles for Cancer Therapy

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed light-activated nanoparticles that advance photothermal therapy and integrate imaging to help detect and treat certain cancers. The platform uses near infrared light to generate heat inside tumours while aiming to minimise harm to healthy tissue, and produces signals that allow visualisation and real-time monitoring of treatment effects.
The team designed biocompatible, biodegradable nanoparticles made from hydroxyapatite, a mineral found in bones and teeth. The particles carry a dye cargo that is activated by near infrared light, selected for its ability to penetrate deeper into the body than visible light. To address stability and delivery challenges common to photothermal agents, the particles are coated with lipids and polymers to help them circulate longer in the bloodstream and evade immune detection, improving the likelihood of reaching tumours.
The nanoparticles are engineered to interact with the mildly acidic environment found in tumours. A peptide on their surface becomes active under these conditions, supporting efficient entry into cancer cells while largely avoiding healthy tissue. In tests described by the researchers, the particles showed high stability, protected the dye from degradation, and accumulated efficiently in tumours. Upon activation by near infrared light, they generated localised heat that damaged tumour tissue and produced fluorescent and thermal signals for imaging and monitoring in real time.