Synergism between electrolysis and methylene blue photodynamic action in Escherichia coli

There is interest in the use of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of certain diseases, including cancer. However, weak penetration of visible light in tissues has restricted its use. In this study the possibility of enhancing photodynamic effects by the use of energies that penetrate more deeply in tissues was investigated. Weak electric currents (1.0 mA) applied to Escherichia coli cells for short periods, producing little or no lethal damage, was found to act synergistically with the photodynamic action of methylene blue, significantly enhancing the effects of this treatment. This synergism exists also between electrolysis and X-rays but not between electrolysis and UV-254 nm. It is suggested that this synergism might eventually be used to improve the results obtained in therapeutic practice based on the utilization of photodynamic action.