In the early stages of our research, our laboratory pioneered the development of optically tunable iron oxide nanoparticles using metal-organic framework chelates. These innovative particles can emit multi-photon fluorescence when excited, marking the world’s first use of iron oxide nanoparticles as fluorescent markers. This breakthrough has enabled advanced fluorescent imaging of cancer cells, offering a powerful tool for cancer detection.

 

Furthermore, these nanoparticles can be utilized as optical coherence tomography (OCT) developers, working in conjunction with an external magnetic field to enhance the observation of cancer cells and facilitate the implementation of photothermal therapy. Beyond imaging, they also serve as highly effective photodetectors in PCR equipment, amplifying gene signals such as those related to ankylosing spondylitis in blood samples.

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Our work in this area has garnered both domestic and international recognition, earning patents and awards for its innovative applications. Recently, we have explored the feasibility of using these iron oxide nanoparticles, with their unique triple-frequency fluorescence, as vascular contrast agents. Additionally, through the application of green chemical technologies, we have successfully bound tannic acid to the surface of nano-iron oxide via hydrothermal processes.

 

This modification improves the interfacial ligand-to-metal charge transfer, resulting in more efficient photothermal conversion. Our experimental work has also demonstrated the effectiveness of these modified nanoparticles in photothermal sterilization, particularly at temperatures around 100°C, showcasing their potential in a variety of medical and industrial applications.