This study aimed to investigate the use of dual targeting of cancer cells by Mg/N-doped carbon quantum dot (CQD), Folic acid (FA), and Hyaluronic acid (HA) complex, simultaneously with photodynamic therapy by silver nanoparticle photosensitizers (Ag NPs). CQDs were synthesized by the hydrothermal method, and dual modi­fication of the surface was done using FA and HA. Ag NPs with polyethylene imine (PEI) coating were synthe­sized and conjugated with CQD-FA-HA complex. Finally, anticancer drug, Epirubicin (EPI) was encapsulated in the final complex (CQD-FA-HA-PEI-Ag NPs-EPI). Cytotoxicity of the final complex was assessed on 4T1, MCF-7, and CHO cell lines with and without laser exposure. Moreover, the effectiveness of the formulation was examined in BALB/c mice with breast cancer tumors. Results showed successful creation of 15 nm hexagonal silver nanoparticles with significant absorption at 523 nm in the near-infrared range. The zeta potential of Ag NPs changed from − 16.7 mV to + 49.4 mV after being treated with PEI. CQDs were effectively synthesized and seamlessly linked with FA and HA. CQD-FA-HA were conjugated with PEI-coated Ag NPs, and the EPI drug was loaded on this structure. The final complex had a particle size of less than 200 nm with an EPI entrapment ef­ficiency of 92%. In vitro experiments demonstrated biocompatibility, cellular uptake, and phototherapeutic ef­ficacy of CQD-FA-HA-PEI-Ag NPs-EPI nanocarriers. Furthermore, in vivo studies revealed that application of these particles followed by laser irradiation resulted in complete tumor regression after 15 days. Results highlighted the excellent therapeutic efficacy of the synthesized nanocarrier and emphasized its potential for cancer treat­ment. In conclusion, this work demonstrates a multifunctional nanoplatform that integrates dual-targeted de­livery (FA/HA), epirubicin chemotherapy, and photodynamic activity of Ag nanoparticles within a single system, representing a significant advancement over conventional nanocarriers.

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