Enhanced photodynamic therapy by enhancing the light energy capture efficiency of porphyrin photosensitizers

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received increasing attention in cancer treatment because of its advantages such as minimally invasive and selective destruction. With the development of PDT, impressive progress has been made in the research of preparing photosensitizers, especially porphyrin photosensitizers. However, the limited tissue penetration and light energy capture efficiency of porphyrin photosensitizers have been the two major obstacles for conventional photosensitizers. Therefore, it is necessary to enhance the tissue penetration and improve the light energy capture efficiency of porphyrin photosensitizers through structural modifications. In addition, indirect excitation of porphyrin photosensitizers using fluorescent donors (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) has been successfully used to address these issues. In this manuscript, we focus on how to enhance the photoenergy capture efficiency of porphyrin photosensitizers, aiming to improve the efficiency of singlet oxygen (1O2) production in tumor tissues and enhance the photodynamic therapy effect of photosensitizers.

Porphyrins in Photodynamic Therapy: A Review

“…an appropriate light source, a photosensitiser (PS) and molecular dioxygen to bring about tumour ablation and destruction of unwanted cells. 2,23,[26][27][28][29] The primary process in PDT begins with the administration of PS to a patient's body. The PS is selectively up-taken by the rapidly dividing malignant cells, following which a radiation source of a specific wavelength irradiates the affected tumorous area.…”