Abstract: Photodynamic therapy systems comprising a nanoparticle that emits electromagnetic radiation having a first wavelength when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, a photosensitizer which absorbs electromagnetic radiation of said first wavelength and a biocompatible mesoporous material are disclosed herein. In some examples, the photodynamic therapy system comprises a core comprising the nanoparticle, a first shell comprising the biocompatible mesoporous material, and a photosensitizer embedded in the first shell. Upon irradiation by, for example, X-rays, the nanoparticle can function as a transducer, converting X-ray photons to visible photons, and in turn, activating the photosensitizers. Methods of using the photodynamic therapy system are also disclosed.

Abstract: Nanoparticles described as metal-encapsulated carbonaceous dots or M@C-dots are disclosed. Also disclosed are specific M@C-dots with gadolinium, so called Gd@C-dots. These nanoparticles are biologically inert and preclude the release of metal in biological environments. In addition, despite a dimension exceeding the commonly recognized threshold for renal clearance, the disclosed nanoparticles can be efficiently cleared via urine after systematic injection. Methods of making and using such nanoparticles are also disclosed.

Abstract: Nanoparticles described as metal-encapsulated carbonaceous dots or M@C-dots are disclosed. Also disclosed are specific M@C-dots with gadolinium, so called Gd@C-dots. These nanoparticles are biologically inert and preclude the release of metal in biological environments. In addition, despite a dimension exceeding the commonly recognized threshold for renal clearance, the disclosed nanoparticles can be efficiently cleared via urine after systematic injection. Methods of making and using such nanoparticles are also disclosed.

Abstract: Photodynamic therapy systems comprising a nanoparticle that emits electromagnetic radiation having a first wavelength when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, a photosensitizer which absorbs electromagnetic radiation of said first wavelength and a biocompatible mesoporous material are disclosed herein. In some examples, the photodynamic therapy system comprises a core comprising the nanoparticle, a first shell comprising the biocompatible mesoporous material, and a photosensitizer embedded in the first shell. Upon irradiation by, for example, X-rays, the nanoparticle can function as a transducer, converting X-ray photons to visible photons, and in turn, activating the photosensitizers. Methods of using the photodynamic therapy system are also disclosed.