Near Infrared Photothermal Nanomaterials as Theranostics for Thrombosis

Abstract

Thrombosis or formation of blood clot is a condition which causes heart attack and stroke, two of the world deadliest diseases. Methods of diagnosis and therapy are continuously being developed to find a rapid, safe, efficient technique to combat this problem. In this thesis, we explore development of NIR-responsive nanomaterials as this approach is desirable, due to the ease of application, good biological compatibility and effective in both triggering drug release and increasing lysis of blood clot. Additionally, these nanomaterials can perform as theranostic agents, to simultaneously diagnose and provide treatment for thrombosis in one application.