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Updated: Jul 16, 2025
Anticancer Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy with Lung Cancer-Targeted Nanoparticles
Published on: December 1, 2016
Pre-activated nanoparticles with persistent luminescence for deep tumor photodynamic therapy in gallbladder cancer
Sarun Juengpanich1,2,3, Shijie Li1,2, Taorui Yang4
1Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
Abstract:
Phototherapy of deep tumors still suffers from many obstacles, such as limited near-infrared (NIR) tissue penetration depth and low accumulation efficiency within the target sites. Herein, stimuli-sensitive tumor-targeted photodynamic nanoparticles (STPNs) with persistent luminescence for the treatment of deep tumors are reported. Purpurin 18 (Pu18), a porphyrin derivative, is utilized as a photosensitizer to produce persistent luminescence in STPNs, while lanthanide-doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) exhibit bioimaging properties and possess high photostability that can enhance photosensitizer efficacy. STPNs are initially stimulated by NIR irradiation before intravenous administration and accumulate at the tumor site to enter the cells through the HER2 receptor. Due to Pu18 afterglow luminescence properties, STPNs can continuously generate ROS to inhibit NFκB nuclear translocation, leading to tumor cell apoptosis. Moreover, STPNs can be used for diagnostic purposes through MRI and intraoperative NIR navigation. STPNs exceptional antitumor properties combined the advantages of UCNPs and persistent luminescence, representing a promising phototherapeutic strategy for deep tumors.
Insights
Stimuli-sensitive tumor-targeted photodynamic nanoparticles (STPNs) offer a novel approach for deep tumor treatment. These nanoparticles utilize persistent luminescence for enhanced phototherapy and diagnostic imaging, overcoming current limitations.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Photodynamic Therapy
Background:
- Phototherapy for deep tumors faces challenges with near-infrared (NIR) penetration and nanoparticle accumulation.
- Developing effective strategies for targeted drug delivery and imaging in deep tumor treatment is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop stimuli-sensitive tumor-targeted photodynamic nanoparticles (STPNs) for treating deep tumors.
- To leverage persistent luminescence and upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for enhanced phototherapy and diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized STPNs incorporating Purpurin 18 (Pu18) as a photosensitizer and UCNPs for bioimaging.
- Utilized NIR irradiation to stimulate STPNs before intravenous administration.
- Investigated HER2 receptor-mediated cellular uptake and subsequent reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
Main Results:
- STPNs demonstrated accumulation at tumor sites and cellular uptake via HER2 receptors.
- Pu18's persistent luminescence enabled continuous ROS generation, inhibiting NFκB and inducing tumor cell apoptosis.
- STPNs facilitated MRI diagnostics and intraoperative NIR navigation.
Conclusions:
- STPNs offer a promising phototherapeutic strategy for deep tumors by combining UCNP advantages with persistent luminescence.
- The developed nanoparticles show potential for enhanced antitumor efficacy, diagnostics, and intraoperative guidance.
