Efficient nanoheater operated in a biological window for photo-hyperthermia therapy.

Abstract

Remotely monitoring and regulating temperature in a small area are of vital importance for hyperthermia therapy. Herein, we report ~11 nm NaErF4 nanocrystal as the ultra-small nanoheater, which is highly safe for biological applications. Under 1530 nm photon excitation, upconversion intensity of NaErF4 is significantly enhanced as compared to the conventionally used 980 nm pumping source. Upconversion mechanisms are discussed on the basis of power dependence measurements. Importantly, light-to-heat transformation efficiency of NaErF4 through 1530 nm pumping is determined as high as 75%. Efficient NIR emission, centered at ~800 nm and thus within the biological window, is used for the temperature feedback. The potential applications of this highly efficient nanoheater for controlled photo-hyperthermia treatments are also demonstrated.