Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

As a promising non-invasive local treatment modality for a wide range of diseases, including cancer, infectious and inflammatory diseases, photodynamic therapy (PDT) triggers a cascade reaction through photosensitizers, leading to a malignant apoptotic or necrotic response. Dendrimers are a class of nanoscale polymeric materials that have unique properties, including high surface area, tunable size, and the ability to functionalize their surface with specific chemical moieties. These properties make them promising candidates for a variety of biomedical applications, PDT.

Introduction into Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses light and a photosensitizing agent to destroy abnormal cells. The photosensitizing agent is first applied to the affected area, and after a specified amount of time, the area is exposed to a specific wavelength of light. The light activates the photosensitizing agent, causing it to produce reactive oxygen species that destroy the abnormal cells. PDT has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including certain types of skin cancer, acne, and age spots. It is also used in the treatment of certain conditions of the airway, such as lung cancer and airway stenosis.

• First, PDT is a minimally invasive treatment with fewer side effects than traditional surgery, is well tolerated by patients, and can be repeated multiple times without interfering with other treatment options.
• Secondly, the dual selectivity of PDT (localization and photoactivation) makes it a more favorable treatment modality.

Overall, Photodynamic Therapy is a promising treatment option for many conditions and offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures.

Dendrimers as Photosensitizer Carriers for Photodynamic Therapy

PDT is a form of cancer treatment that involves the activation of a photosensitizing agent by light to produce reactive oxygen species, which can damage or destroy cancer cells. Dendrimers can be used as carriers for photosensitizing agents, allowing for improved targeting of cancer cells and increased efficacy of the therapy. Additionally, the ability to functionalize the surface of dendrimers with specific targeting moieties, such as antibodies or peptides, can further enhance the specificity of the therapy. Dendrimers can also improve the photostability of photosensitizing agents, preventing premature degradation and increasing the efficacy of the therapy. Furthermore, their nanoscale size can increase the accumulation of photosensitizers in cancer cells and reduce their clearance from the body, leading to improved therapeutic outcomes. The potential benefits of using dendrimers in PDT, including improved targeting and enhanced efficacy, make them an attractive option for future research and development. Overall, while further studies are needed to fully evaluate the safety and efficacy of dendrimers for PDT, the unique properties of dendrimers make them promising candidates for use in photodynamic therapy.

Dendrimer-based nanohybrids allow the incorporation of both PDT and PTT agents for combination PDT/PTT of tumors. (Wu C, et al., 2020)

How We Can Help

With an advanced technology platform and years of experience in dendrimer research, CD BioSciences is confident in providing innovative dendrimer products and high-quality custom services to our customers worldwide. Our dedicated scientists are confident that we can overcome all the difficulties in your project research process and meet your specific needs. If you are interested in our services or have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

1. Wu C.; et al. Acid-Triggered Charge-Convertible Graphene-Based All-in-One Nanocomplex for Enhanced Genetic Phototherapy of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Adv Healthc Mater. 2022, 9: e1901187.