Melanin and Melanin-like Nanoparticles: A Versatile Platform for Synergistic Cancer Photothermal and Immunotherapy

Melanin, a ubiquitous natural pigment, possesses diverse physicochemical properties that extend beyond its conventional photoprotective role, making it a compelling agent in oncology. This review synthesizes current knowledge on melanin, with a particular focus on nanoformulations (MNPs), and critically examines their potential as multifaceted platforms for cancer therapy. We highlight the distinctive capabilities of MNPs, including their efficient photothermal conversion for tumor ablation and an innate propensity for lymphatic accumulation, whichpositions them as a highly promising vehicle for synergizing photothermal therapy with immunotherapy. While the broader biomedical potential of MNPs is acknowledged, this article concentrates on the challenges of standardization and long-term biocompatibility that must beaddressed through multidisciplinary collaboration. The objective of this work is to catalyze further research aimed at translating these innovative discoveries into next-generation cancertherapeutics.