Internal Light Sources‐Mediated Photodynamic Therapy Nanoplatforms: Hope for the Resolution of the Traditional Penetration Problem

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an alternative cancer treatment technique with a noninvasive nature, high selectivity, and minimal adverse effects. The indispensable light source used in PDT is a critical factor in determining the energy conversion of photosensitizers (PSs). Traditional light sources are primarily concentrated in the visible light region, severely limiting their penetration depth and making them prone to scattering and absorption when applied to biological tissues. For that reason, its efficacy in treating deep‐seated lesions is often inadequate. Self‐exciting PDT, also known as auto‐PDT (APDT), is an attractive option for circumventing the limited penetration depth of traditional PDT and has acquired significant attention. APDT employs depth‐independent internal light sources to excite PSs through resonance or radiative energy transfer. APDT has considerable potential for treating deep‐tissue malignancies. To facilitate many researchers' comprehension of the latest research progress in this field and inspire the emergence of more novel research results. This review introduces internal light generation mechanisms and characteristics and provides an overview of current research progress based on the recently reported APDT nanoplatforms. The current challenges and possible solutions of APDT nanoplatforms are also presented and provide insights for future research in the final section of this article.

Recent advances of hydrogels as smart dressings for diabetic wounds

“…130 The principle is to irradiate photosensitizers with light to generate heat or ROS to destroy bacterial structures. 131,132 This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2024 healing in diabetic patients (Fig. 10B).…”

Photodynamic Therapy for Eye, Ear, Laryngeal Area, and Nasal and Oral Cavity Diseases: A Review

“…One of the primary limitations of PDT is its restricted tissue penetration, particularly in deep-seated tumors. The effectiveness of PDT diminishes with increasing tissue depth, limiting its application to superficial or accessible lesions [201]. Patients undergoing PDT often experience photosensitivity, necessitating precautionary measures to avoid prolonged sun exposure [202].…”

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“…[ 31 ] Internal self‐lasers, like implantable optical fibers and LEDs, provide internal light sources but require invasive procedures. [ 32,33 ] Conversely, bioluminescence (BL) allows minimally invasive enzyme and substrate administration, exhibiting greater biocompatibility and overcoming visible light scattering and absorption issues. [ 34 ]…”