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Induction of prosurvival molecules during treatment: rethinking therapy options for photodynamic therapy

Charles J Gomer1

  • 1Cancer Biology and Pediatrics, The Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA. cgomer@chla.usc.edu

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN
|October 12, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) impacts tumors by directly killing cancer cells and altering the tumor microenvironment. Research explores how PDT affects key cellular components to enhance treatment effectiveness.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry
  • Photochemistry

Background:

  • Photodynamic therapy (PDT) exhibits direct cytotoxicity against malignant tumor cells.
  • PDT also influences nonmalignant components within the tumor microenvironment.
  • Preclinical studies investigate PDT's modulation of the tumor microenvironment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of specific cellular components in PDT's effects on the tumor microenvironment.
  • To identify potential targets for combined modality regimens to improve PDT responsiveness.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical studies on PDT's impact on tumor microenvironment.
  • Analysis of the roles of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), survivin, and 17-AAG.

Main Results:

  • PDT modulates various cellular components within the tumor microenvironment.
  • Key factors influenced by PDT include HIF-1α, VEGF, COX-2, MMPs, survivin, and heat shock proteins (HSP).

Conclusions:

  • Understanding PDT's modulation of the tumor microenvironment is crucial.
  • Targeting these cellular processes in combination with PDT may enhance treatment outcomes for tumors.

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