ABSTRACT In this work, we have developed a multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform consisting of a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) biodegradable matrix covered by a gold shell, which provides the system with NIR absorption ability and subsequent generation of hyperthermia effect. Inside the PLGA nanoparticle, the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin (DOXO) and the NIR dye isocyanine green (ICG) were loaded. The characterization of the particles, their in vitro cytotocixity combining NIR light irradiation and chemotherapy and their preliminary in vivo biodistribution is analyzed.