Hyaluronic Acid-Based Nanoplatforms for Photoacoustic Monitoring of Phototherapy.
Jeong Yongjae Y, Jo Dongyoung D, Choi Wonseok W, Kim Ki Su KS et al.
Photoacoustic imaging is a noninvasive imaging modality with considerable potential for theranostic applications, providing high-resolution visualization of molecular and physiological responses to treatment. Among the diverse materials investigated for constructing theranostic nanoplatforms, hyaluronic acid has attracted substantial interest because of its biocompatibility, hydrophilicity, chemical modifiability, and affinity for CD44 receptors, which are frequently overexpressed in various cancer cells. Moreover, appropriately engineered hyaluronic acid-based formulations offer opportunities for localized and transdermal delivery, potentially reducing the need for systemic administration and expanding the applicability of noninvasive phototherapy, particularly for superficial lesions. In this review, we summarize recent advances in hyaluronic acid-based nanoplatforms for photoacoustic imaging-monitored phototherapy, categorized into photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, and their combination. We further discuss their material design, targeting and delivery mechanisms, photoacoustic monitoring capabilities, therapeutic performance, and key challenges for clinical translation.