Enhancement of Photodynamic Cancer Therapy by Physical and Chemical Factors

Abstract

The viable use of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in cancer therapy has never been fully realized because of its undesirable effects on healthy tissues. Herein we summarize some physicochemical factors that can make PDT a more viable and effective option to provide future oncological patients with better‐quality treatment options. These physicochemical factors include light sources, photosensitizer (PS) carriers, microwaves, electric fields, magnetic fields, and ultrasound. This Review is meant to provide current information pertaining to PDT use, including a discussion of in vitro and in vivo studies. Emphasis is placed on the physicochemical factors and their potential benefits in overcoming the difficulty in transitioning PDT into the medical field. Many advanced techniques, such as employing X‐rays as a light source, using nanoparticle‐loaded stem cells and bacteriophage bio‐nanowires as a photosensitizer carrier, as well as integration with immunotherapy, are among the future directions.

Metallodrugs are unique: opportunities and challenges of discovery and development

“…84 The main advantage of XPDT is the ability to overcome the limited penetration depth of visible light. 85 Moving from electromagnetic to mechanical waves, sonodynamic therapy was initially developed as a proxy for PDT to increase tissue penetration depth. Sonoluminescence, obtained by concentrating large amounts of energy from ultrasound, can excite a PS.…”

Perfluoropolyether Nanoemulsion Encapsulating Chlorin e6 for Sonodynamic and Photodynamic Therapy of Hypoxic Tumor

“…Then, in response to excitation with either light or ultrasound for PDT and SDT, respectively, the photo- or the sono-sensitizer generates highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), which destroy the tumor cells ( Scheme 1 ) [ 1 , 2 ]. The advantages of PDT and SDT include noninvasiveness, unsurpassed targeting, and low side effects in untreated areas [ 3 , 4 ].…”

Cell Membrane Nanotherapeutics: From Synthesis to Applications Emerging Tools for Personalized Cancer Therapy

“…A significant proportion of the literature focuses on exploiting the optical properties of materials to absorb NIR radiation and induce photothermal, chemo‐photothermal, or photodynamic effects. [ 126–132 ] The therapeutic application of this is noninvasive, and can reduce the occurrence of nonspecific toxicity to tissues which do not undergo irradiation. [ 126 ] The rather simple approach of light irradiation in and of itself is insufficient.…”