Nano-photosensitizers for enhanced photodynamic therapy
BUHONG LI 1,*, LI LIN1, XUEJIAO SONG2 AND XIAOCHENG DONG2
1 Key Laboratory of OptoElectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Normal University
2 Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics and Institute of Advanced Materials, Nanjing Technology University
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilizes photosensitizers (PSs) together with irradiation light of specific wavelength interacting with oxygen to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could trigger apoptosis and/or necrosis-induced cell death in target tissues. Considering the critical role of ROS generation during PDT, multifunctional nano-PSs employing nanotechnology and nanoscience are being developed, which present not only photosensitizing properties but additionally accurate drug release abilities, efficient response to optical stimuli and hypoxia resistance. Furthermore, nano-PSs have been developed to enhance PDT efficiency by improving the ROS yield. In addition, nano-PSs with additive or synergistic therapies are significant for both current preclinical research and future clinical practice, given their capability of considerable higher therapeutic efficacy under safer systemic drug dosage. In this review, nano-PSs that allow precise drug delivery for efficient absorption by target cells are introduced. Nano-PSs boosting sensitivity and conversion efficiency to PDT-activating stimuli are highlighted. Nano-PSs developed to address the challenging hypoxia conditions during PDT of deep-sited tumors are summarized. Specifically, PSs capable of synergistic therapy and the recently emerging novel types that further enhance PDT efficacy are presented. Finally, future demands for ideal nano-PSs, emphasizing clinical translation and application are discussed.
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Speaker
Buhong Li
Fujian Normal University
China
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