Combining ZnPc-liposomes and chitosan on a hybrid matrix for enhanced photodynamic therapy

Photodynamic therapy is an alternative treatment for several pathologies, including cancer. This therapy uses a photosensitizer capable of producing reactive oxygen species through irradiation, promoting cellular death. A limitation of photosensitizers is their low solubility in aqueous media. Hence, developing a suitable carrier for photosensitizers for specific applications is a challenge. Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, and photodynamic therapy could be an attractive alternative therapeutic approach. In this work, we synthesized films composed of chitosan, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and liposomes containing Zn-phthalocyanine. Photophysical characterization of ZnPc incorporated into films was determined by UV-vis and fluorescence. Film properties such as swelling, mechanical properties, and water vapor permeability were performed. Finally, in vitro, photodynamic evaluation of these films was performed on HeLa cells. The results indicate that incorporating Zn-Pc-liposomes into films decreases cell viability by >95 %.