Photodynamic Therapy and Tumor Microenvironment-Targeting Strategies: A Novel Synergy at the Frontier of Cancer
Stefani Torna1, Vasiliki Gkretsi2,3, Andreas Stylianou1,4
1Cancer Mechanobiology and Applied Biophysics Group, Basic and Translational Cancer Research Center, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia 2404, Cyprus.
Abstract:
Despite intensive worldwide research efforts and multiple available therapeutic schemes for cancer treatment, cancer still remains a challenge, rendering the need for the discovery of new therapeutic approaches imperative. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a novel, non-invasive anti-cancer treatment that relies on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are cytotoxic to cancer cells. ROS are generated by the interaction between a photosensitizer (PS) drug, a light source (primarily a laser), and oxygen. Although PDT offers the advantage of using non-ionizing radiation and bears great therapeutic potential, it has not yet been widely adopted in clinical practice. This review summarizes the new developments in the use of PDT in combination with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy, giving emphasis to the combination of PDT with a novel type of therapy that also takes into account the tumor microenvironment (TME) to enhance treatment efficacy. TME-targeting therapies include strategies like hypoxia modulation, vascular normalization, and immune cell reprogramming. Interestingly, when combined with PDT, these therapies can improve therapeutic outcomes while reducing side effects, and nanoparticle-based delivery systems have demonstrated the potential to enhance PDT selectivity and efficiency. This review highlights PDT's enormous potential in treating various cancer types and underscores the need for continued exploration of combination therapies to maximize its clinical impact.
Insights
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) shows promise as a non-invasive cancer treatment. Combining PDT with other therapies and nanoparticle delivery systems enhances efficacy and reduces side effects.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Photochemistry
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Cancer remains a significant global health challenge despite extensive research.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising non-invasive treatment generating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer cells.
- PDT utilizes a photosensitizer, light, and oxygen but faces challenges in widespread clinical adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in combining photodynamic therapy (PDT) with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy.
- To highlight the integration of PDT with tumor microenvironment (TME)-targeting therapies for enhanced efficacy.
- To discuss the role of nanoparticle-based delivery systems in improving PDT's selectivity and efficiency.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent developments in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and combination strategies.
- Analysis of TME-targeting therapies including hypoxia modulation, vascular normalization, and immune cell reprogramming.
- Evaluation of nanoparticle-based delivery systems for PDT enhancement.
Main Results:
- Combination therapies involving PDT show potential for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
- TME-targeting strategies combined with PDT can enhance therapeutic effects and reduce side effects.
- Nanoparticle delivery systems can significantly improve the selectivity and efficiency of PDT.
Conclusions:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) holds substantial potential for treating diverse cancer types.
- Exploring novel combination therapies, particularly those targeting the tumor microenvironment (TME), is crucial for maximizing PDT's clinical impact.
- Continued research into nanoparticle-enhanced PDT and combination strategies is warranted to advance clinical applications.
Related Concept Videos
02:17The Tumor Microenvironment
01:27Tumor Immunotherapy
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
02:49Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...
02:50Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
01:15Drugs that Stabilize Microtubules