Fig. 1: Schematic illustrative depiction of the AIEgen bacteria hybrid bionic robot EcN@INX-2 for guiding multimodal imaging and its application in elucidating cancer immunotherapy mechanisms.

An AIEgen bacteria hybrid bionic robot, EcN@INX-2, was fabricated by integrating the AIEgen (INX-2) with bacteria (EcN). Following systemic administration, EcN@INX-2 infiltrates the tumor site with its intrinsic tumor-targeting ability to facilitate multimodal imaging. Laser irradiation of the tumor for combined photodynamic and photothermal therapy induces ICD, triggers activation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells, and elicits a potent immune response, resulting in significant anti-tumor efficacy.