Near-Infrared Light-Triggered Polymeric Nanomicelles for Cancer Therapy and Imaging.

Early diagnosis and efficient therapy are very important for cancer management. Among the various intelligent delivery systems, near-infrared (NIR) light-triggered polymeric nanomicelles (PNMs) have emerged as a promising approach for imaging and photoactive delivery. This platform can be used for spatially and temporally controlled remote release of therapeutic payload molecules under NIR light irradiation. This review discusses the design and characteristics of PNMs as well as their recent application in imaging, drug delivery, and theranostics in photothermal and photodynamic therapy. The challenges and potential of PNMs in biomedical applications are also highlighted.