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Updated: May 24, 2026
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LED-Based In Vitro Screening for Assessing Photoactivable Molecules in Bacterial Photodynamic Inactivation
Published on: January 24, 2025
[Photodynamic therapy for infectious keratitis].
N Szentmáry1, S Goebels, M Bischoff
1Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universität des Saarlandes, UKS, Kirrberger Str. 1, 66424, Homburg/Saar, Deutschland. nszentmary@hotmail.com
Summary
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) shows promise for treating eye conditions like keratoconus and infectious keratitis. This therapy uses light-activated compounds to damage cells and microbes, potentially offering an alternative for resistant infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Corneal Cross-linking
Context:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been utilized in ophthalmology for a decade, primarily for posterior pole disorders.
- Recent applications include corneal cross-linking for progressive keratoconus.
- Classical PDT uses porphyrins with visible light (630-635 nm), while corneal cross-linking employs riboflavin and UV light (370 nm).
Purpose:
- To explore the application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in ophthalmology, focusing on corneal cross-linking and infectious keratitis.
- To review the mechanisms of PDT, including free radical generation and collagen cross-linking.
- To assess the antimicrobial efficacy and therapeutic potential of PDT for resistant ocular infections.
Summary:
- PDT involves photosensitizers generating free oxygen radicals that damage cellular components and nucleic acids.
- Corneal cross-linking enhances the collagen fiber network.
- Experimental data indicate PDT can induce corneal cell apoptosis and reduce microbial survival (e.g., herpes simplex virus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans).
Impact:
- Clinical studies suggest PDT can effectively treat bacterial and acanthamoeba keratitis.
- PDT is proposed as a potential alternative therapy for antibiotic-resistant infectious keratitis.
- Further investigation into the limitations of PDT is warranted for broader clinical adoption.
