Personalized Cancer Therapeutics Using Photoacoustic Imaging-Guided Sonodynamic Therapy

Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is a promising approach for cancer treatment that uses sonosensitizers (SNSs) to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of ultrasound. However, SDT is oxygen-dependent and requires an imaging tool to monitor the tumor microenvironment and guide treatment. Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a noninvasive and powerful imaging tool that offers high spatial resolution and deep tissue penetration. PAI can quantitatively assess tumor oxygen saturation (sO ₂ ) and guide SDT by monitoring time-dependent sO ₂ changes in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we discuss recent advances in PAI-guided SDT for cancer therapy. We discuss various exogenous contrast agents and nanomaterial-based SNSs developed for PAI-guided SDT. Additionally, combining SDT with other therapies, including photothermal therapy, can enhance its therapeutic effect. However, the application of nanomaterial-based contrast agents in PAI-guided SDT for cancer therapy remains challenging due to the lack of simple designs, the need for extensive pharmacokinetic studies, and high production costs. Integrated efforts from researchers, clinicians, and industry consortia are necessary for the successful clinical translation of these agents and SDT for personalized cancer therapy. PAI-guided SDT shows the potential to revolutionize cancer therapy and improve patient outcomes, but further research is necessary to realize its full potential.