Photodynamic therapy-induced angiogenic signaling: consequences and solutions to improve therapeutic response
Shannon M Gallagher-Colombo1, Amanda L Maas1, Min Yuan1
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3620 Hamilton Walk, B13 Anatomy Chemistry Bldg., Philadelphia, PA 19104.
Abstract:
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) can be a highly effective treatment for diseases ranging from actinic keratosis to cancer. While use of this therapy shows great promise in preclinical and clinical studies, understanding the molecular consequences of PDT is critical to designing better treatment protocols. A number of publications have documented alteration in angiogenic factors and growth factor receptors following PDT, which could abrogate treatment effect by inducing angiogenesis and re-establishment of the tumor vasculature. In response to these findings, work over the past decade has examined the efficacy of combining PDT with molecular targeting drugs, such as anti-angiogenic compounds, in an effort to combat these PDT-induced molecular changes. These combinatorial approaches increase rates of apoptosis, impair pro-tumorigenic signaling, and enhance tumor response. This report will examine the current understanding of PDT-induced angiogenic signaling and address molecular-based approaches to abrogate this signaling or its consequences thereby enhancing PDT efficacy.
Insights
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) shows promise for treating various diseases. Combining PDT with targeted drugs combats PDT-induced changes, enhancing treatment efficacy by reducing tumor growth and improving apoptosis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Photochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising treatment for actinic keratosis and cancer.
- Understanding PDT's molecular effects is crucial for optimizing treatment protocols.
- PDT can induce changes in angiogenic factors and growth factor receptors, potentially promoting tumor regrowth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the molecular consequences of PDT, specifically focusing on angiogenic signaling.
- To review molecular-based strategies for overcoming PDT-induced angiogenic signaling.
- To enhance the efficacy of photodynamic therapy through combination approaches.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating PDT's molecular effects.
- Analysis of research on combining PDT with molecular targeting drugs, particularly anti-angiogenic compounds.
- Examination of signaling pathways involved in PDT-induced angiogenesis.
Main Results:
- PDT can stimulate angiogenesis by altering angiogenic factors and growth factor receptors.
- Combinatorial approaches using PDT with molecular targeting drugs show increased apoptosis.
- These combinations impair pro-tumorigenic signaling and improve tumor response.
Conclusions:
- Targeting PDT-induced angiogenic signaling is critical for improving therapeutic outcomes.
- Combination therapies hold significant potential for enhancing PDT efficacy in treating diseases like cancer.
- Further research into molecular-based strategies can optimize PDT protocols.
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