Scheme 1.

Schematic of the theranostic strategy for RNAi gene therapy and fluorescence tumor imaging. Anti-EGFR aptamer-conjugated lipid nanocarriers encapsulating QDs and anti-cancer siRNAs were prepared and intravenously administered. The administered lipid nanocarriers presumably extravasated through the leaky tumor vasculature and then targeted primary tumors via specific recognition of EGF receptors overexpressed on MDA-MB-231 tumors. The delivered QDs and therapeutic siRNAs provide fluorescence tumor images and inhibitory effects on tumor growth.