Nanoparticle-Based Photodynamic Therapy Applications
Summary
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) utilises light-activated photosensitisers to generate reactive oxygen species that selectively destroy malignant or pathogenic tissues. Incorporation of photosensitisers into nanoparticles offers precise control over biodistribution, enhanced tumour accumulation and reduced off-target toxicity. A broad spectrum of organic constructs (such as liposomes, polymeric micelles and solid lipid nanoparticles) and inorganic platforms (including silica and metal-based nanostructures) have been engineered to improve water solubility, prolong circulation time and achieve stimuli-responsive release. Surface functionalisation with targeting ligands or charge-switching groups further refines selectivity by recognising tumour-specific receptors or exploiting the acidic microenvironment. Multifunctional formulations can integrate imaging modalities (fluorescence, photoacoustic or MRI) with therapeutic action, enabling real-time guidance and dose optimisation. Advances in ultrasmall renal-clearable nanodots mitigate long-term toxicity, while hybrid designs combining diagnostic and therapeutic functions (theranostics) streamline clinical workflows. Beyond oncology, nanoparticle-assisted PDT shows promise in antimicrobial therapy, atherosclerotic plaque modulation and superficial dermatological conditions. Ongoing research addresses challenges in light penetration depth, immune response modulation and large-scale manufacturing. The convergence of materials science, photophysics and tumour biology continues to expand the therapeutic window of PDT, offering a versatile platform for precision medicine with global significance.
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Nanoparticle-Based Photodynamic Therapy Applications publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in nanoparticle-based photodynamic therapy applications across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Treatment that combines a photosensitiser, light and oxygen to produce cytotoxic reactive oxygen species.
Nanoparticle: A particle with dimensions in the nanometre range, engineered to carry and release therapeutics in a controlled manner.
Photosensitiser: A molecule that, upon light activation, transfers energy to oxygen to form reactive species that damage target cells.
Reactive oxygen species (ROS): Highly reactive oxygen derivatives, such as singlet oxygen, that induce cellular damage and death.
Theranostics: Combined therapeutic and diagnostic approach in a single nanosystem, enabling imaging-guided treatment.
References
- Polymer theranostics with multiple stimuli-based activation of photodynamic therapy and tumor imaging. Theranostics (2023).
- Ce6-GFFY is a novel photosensitizer for colorectal cancer therapy. Genes & Diseases (2024).
- Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy Efficacy through Solid Lipid Nanoparticle of Purpurin-18-N-Propylimide Methyl Ester for Cancer Treatment. International Journal of Molecular Sciences (2024).
- Ultra-small Pyropheophorbide-a Nanodots for Near-infrared Fluorescence/Photoacoustic Imaging-guided Photodynamic Therapy. Theranostics (2020).
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