Breast Cancer Therapy with Quantum Dots: NIR-II Image-Guided Interventions, Multimodal Treatment, and Translation

Abstract:

This systematic review evaluates quantum dots (QDs) as integrated theranostic platforms for breast cancer, combining second near-infrared (NIR-II) imaging with image-guided interventions and multimodal therapy. Literature was identified through a structured search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, CNKI, and Wan- Fang databases (January 2003-November 2025), followed by independent screening and quality appraisal by two authors using pre-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. The review links QD composition and surface chemistry to optical performance, photothermal/ photodynamic/catalytic efficacy, and translational determinants (pharmacokinetics, biodistribution/clearance, immunocompatibility, and critical quality attributes (CQAs)). Compared with NIR-I dyes, NIR-II QDs improve intraoperative margin visualization and sentinel lymph node mapping and can guide photothermal and photodynamic treatment. Ligand-based and biomimetic strategies move beyond the enhanced permeability and retention effect, enabling trackable delivery and stimuli-responsive release of drugs and nucleic acids. We also summarize chemodynamic and sonodynamic approaches that complement phototherapies and may elicit immunogenic cell death. To enable comparability and translation, we recommend standardized reporting of optical/ultrasonic dosimetry, photothermal conversion efficiency, singlet-oxygen/ reactive oxygen species yields, temperature-time profiles, imaging depth/contrast, pharmacokinetic and clearance metrics, immune safety panels, and stability-linked CQAs. Task-driven design principles prioritizing low-toxicity cores, robust shells and coatings, and benchmarking against clinical standards are highlighted to support clinical translation.