Biocompatible particles comprising a metallic core and a plurality of drug-loading ligands coordinated to the metallic core are described. The metallic core can, for example, have a melting point of 100° C. or less. The biocompatible particles can, in some examples, further comprise a therapeutically effective amount of a drug coordinated to the plurality of drug-loading ligands. In some examples, the biocompatible particles can further comprise a plurality of targeting ligands coordinated to the metallic core. Also disclosed herein are methods of making the biocompatible particles described herein, for example using sonication. Also disclosed herein are methods of treating cancer in a subject comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of the biocompatible particles or compositions disclosed herein.
