The released tumor-associated antigens and R837-loaded nanoparticle adjuvant would demonstrate vaccine-like functions upon near-infrared-induced photothermal ablation of primary tumors injected with PLGA–ICG–R837, resulting in potent immune reactions, which with the aid of the anti-CTLA4 checkpoint-blockade would inhibit the immune suppressive Tregs could target distant tumor cells present in the mouse. The gene discussed is CTLA4; the disease is neoplasm.