Theranostic prodrugs that integrate diagnostic and therapeutic functionalities represent a promising avenue for precision oncology. In this study, we report the rational design, synthesis, and preclinical evaluation of a nanobody-based αvβ3 integrin-targeted theranostic prodrug (NBD). The system incorporates a glutathione-responsive disulfide linker to enable selective release of doxorubicin within the tumor microenvironment, alongside an aza-BODIPY near-infrared fluorophore that providesactivatable imaging capability. Compared to its cRGD peptide-conjugated counterpart (cRBD), NBD demonstrated superior tumor selectivity, intracellular activation, and cytotoxic potency in αvβ3-overexpressing cancer cell lines. In vivo studies using SKOV3 xenograft models confirmed prolonged tumor retention, enhanced drug accumulation, and potent tumor suppression, with minimal systemic toxicity. Moreover, real-time imaging enabled precise monitoring of prodrug activation and distribution. These findings highlight the unique advantages of nanobody-guided theranostic platforms in enabling targeted drug delivery, reducing off-target effects, and facilitating image-guided therapy. The modular design of NBD provides a versatile framework for advancing personalized cancer treatment strategies.
Karan et al. (Mon,) studied this question.