Revolutionizing cancer treatment: nanotechnology-enabled photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy with advanced photosensitizers

Abstract

Nanotechnology-enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT) and immunotherapy are emerging as exciting cancer therapeutic methods with significant potential for improving patient outcomes. By combining these approaches, synergistic effects have been observed in preclinical studies, resulting in enhanced immune responses to cancer and the capacity to conquer the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Despite challenges such as addressing treatment limitations and developing personalized cancer treatment strategies, the integration of nanotechnology-enabled PDT and immunotherapy, along with advanced photosensitizers (PSs), represents an exciting new avenue in cancer treatment. Continued research, development, and collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and regulatory agencies are crucial for further advancements and the successful implementation of these promising therapies, ultimately benefiting cancer patients worldwide.

Copper and Copper Complexes in Tumor Therapy

“…[146][147][148] PDT, applied in the realm of oncology treatment, encompasses local therapy, adjuvant therapy, and even pain relief. [149][150][151][152][153][154] The effectiveness of this treatment modality entails the administration of a photosensitizer into the targeted region, subsequent exposure to precise light wavelengths, and subsequent activation of the photosensitizer to induce the release of oxidants that lead to the destruction of malignant cells. PDT demonstrates significant promise in the treatment of certain types of tumors due to its minimal side effects [155][156][157] (Figure 3).…”

“…This observation laid the foundation for further investigations by Thomas Dougherty, whose comprehensive research played a crucial role in advancing photodynamic therapy (PDT) from a theoretical concept to a practical clinical application [146–148] . PDT, applied in the realm of oncology treatment, encompasses local therapy, adjuvant therapy, and even pain relief [149–154] . The effectiveness of this treatment modality entails the administration of a photosensitizer into the targeted region, subsequent exposure to precise light wavelengths, and subsequent activation of the photosensitizer to induce the release of oxidants that lead to the destruction of malignant cells.…”

Current Advances in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and the Future Potential of PDT-Combinatorial Cancer Therapies

“…In the context of PDT, they have been shown to regulate tumor oxygen deficiency as well as intensify the generation of ROS at the localized target site, ultimately leading to the more effective and rapid destruction of cancer cells [45,46]. Furthermore, ongoing research in nanotechnology has highlighted its significant potential in PDT applications, as it enhances drug delivery precision, targetability, safety, and overall treatment efficacy in cancer therapy, some of which are discussed in the following section [47].…”

Photodynamic therapy for arthritis: A promising therapeutic strategy

“…The aim of the third generation of photosensitizers is to link with monoclonal antibodies or other small bioactive molecules such as steroids, lipids, peptides, nucleosides, and nucleotides to obtain photosensitizers with targeting functions. The basic characteristics that an ideal photosensitizer should have are (1) a wide range of material sources, easy chemical synthesis, and good biocompatibility; (2) clear chemical composition and structure effect; (3) a maximum absorption peak located in the near‐infrared (NIR) band to improve the depth of treatment; (4) high quantum yield of photosensitized singlet oxygen; (5) good photostability and insignificant photobleaching effect; (6) clear cell or tissue targeting (strong specificity); (7) small toxic and adverse effects and fast metabolic elimination from the body; and (8) functions of diagnosis and curative effect monitoring 4,5 . Third‐generation functional photosensitizers are currently being developed to facilitate the clinical application of PDT.…”