Multifunctional Gallium Nanorods-Embedded Calcium Alginate/Silk Fibroin Microspheres for Tumor Therapy: Integrating Embolization, Photothermal Therapy, Chemotherapy, and Imaging

This study presents multifunctional embolic microspheres (CA/SF Ga@DOX MS) composed of calcium-alginate/silk-fibroin matrices embedded with gallium nanorods (Ga NRs) and loaded with doxorubicin (DOX) for synergistic tumor embolization and photothermal-chemotherapeutic treatment. The hybrid microspheres provided X-ray and CT visibility, enabling real-time imaging of embolization sites for at least four weeks in vivo. Upon 808 nm laser irradiation, the Ga NRs generated localized heating (~55 °C), enhancing tumor cell ablation and triggering accelerated DOX release from the microspheres. The CA/SF matrix ensured biodegradability and controlled degradation, while the multifunctional design integrated embolization, imaging, photothermal conversion, and drug release into a single platform for improved interventional oncology outcomes.