Laser-activated nanoparticles can enhance immune response by transforming the tumor microenvironment in cholangiocarcinoma.

• Combining photothermal therapy with PD-1 blockade significantly reduced extracellular matrix stiffness and improved T-cell infiltration.
• This dual approach shifted tumors from immune-cold to immune-hot states, enhancing anti-tumor responses and reducing immunosuppressive signals.

Surgeons should consider these findings to inform patient selection and optimize immunotherapy in fibrotic tumors.