A Review Article: Comparative Analysis of Gold and Graphene-Based Nanomaterials for NIR-Mediated Photothermal Therapy in Oral Cancer: Properties, Mechanisms, and Clinical Potential

Sallah, Dina; Tawfik, Walid; Zaky, Ahmed; Saber, Mahmoud

doi:10.21608/jlsa.2025.380066.1035

A Review Article: Comparative Analysis of Gold and Graphene-Based Nanomaterials for NIR-Mediated Photothermal Therapy in Oral Cancer: Properties, Mechanisms, and Clinical Potential

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

¹ National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences (NILES), Cairo University, 12613, Giza, Egypt.

² Cairo university Street, Giza, Egypt

³ Department of Medical Applications of Laser, National Institute of Laser Enhanced Sciences, Cairo University.

10.21608/jlsa.2025.380066.1035

Abstract

This comprehensive review evaluates gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and graphene oxide (GO) as near-infrared (NIR)-responsive photothermal agents for oral cancer therapy. We highlight advancements up to 2025 and analyze their optical properties, heat conversion mechanisms, biocompatibility, and clinical readiness. AuNPs exhibit superior photothermal efficiency via localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), with gold nanorods enabling tunable NIR absorption through aspect ratio control. Recent clinical trials, such as PEG-coated silica-gold nanoshells (AuroLase therapy), underscore AuNPs’ translational progress. Conversely, GO offers unparalleled versatility, combining high thermal conductivity, surface functionalization potential, and multimodal capabilities. Studies on folic acid-chitosan-GO nanocomposites demonstrate tumor-specific ablation and recurrence prevention in vivo. Key challenges include optimizing NIR-II (1000–1500 nm) penetration for deeper tumors and addressing long-term biocompatibility concerns. Recent advances, such as FDA-approved biomimetic modifications and NIR-II-responsive polymer conjugates, highlight pathways to clinical translation. We emphasize the need for standardized protocols, targeted delivery strategies, and rigorous safety assessments.
Integrating recent studies—including works on hyperthermia-immunotherapy synergy, multifunctional nanomedicines, and light-responsive therapies—this review critically synthesizes AuNPs’ and GO’s complementary strengths. While AuNPs lead in clinical trials, GO’s multifunctionality positions it as a promising platform for combinatorial therapies. The analysis concludes that both nanomaterials hold transformative potential for oral cancer treatment, particularly for patients with recurrent or advanced disease.

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