Next‐Generation Cancer‐Specific Hybrid Theranostic Nanomaterials: MAGE‐A3 NIR Persistent Luminescence Nanoparticles Conjugated to Afatinib for In Situ Suppression of Lung Adenocarcinoma Growth and Metastasis

The rate of lung cancer has gradually increased in recent years, with an average annual increase of 15%. Afatinib (AFT) plays a key role in preventing non‐small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) growth and spread. To increase the efficiency of drug loading and NSCLC cell tracking, near infrared‐persistent luminescence nanomaterials (NIR PLNs), a silica shell‐assisted synthetic route for mono‐dispersal, are developed and used in the nanovehicle. After optimizing their physical and chemical properties, the NIR PLNs are able to absorb light energy and emit NIR luminescence for several hours. In this research, NIR PLNs are functionalized for drug‐carrying capabilities. Effective accumulation of target drugs, such as AFT, using PLN nanomaterials can lead to unique anticancer therapeutic benefits (AFT‐PLN). To minimize side effects and increase drug accumulation, nanomaterials with targeting abilities are used instead of simple drugs to inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Thus, the specific targeting aptamer, MAGE‐A3 (MAp) is identified, and the PLN to increase its targeting ability (AFT‐PLN@MAp) accordingly modified. The advancement of nanoscale techniques in the field of lung cancer is urgently needed; this research presents a plausible diagnostic strategy and a novel method for therapeutic administration.