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Design and synthesis of folate receptor-targeted squaraine dye complex for photodynamic therapy
1Department of Food Processing/Milk and Production Technology, Technical Sciences Vocational School, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Turkiye.
Abstract:
In recent years, new treatment methods have been developed in addition to traditional treatments to eliminate cancer, one of the deadliest diseases. Given the shortcomings of conventional therapies, including the emergence of drug resistance and selectivity to the target cell, a considerable number of researchers have directed their attention toward the investigation of alternative, less invasive strategies for the treatment of cancer. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received great attention in the scientific community as it is seen as a promising method of cancer treatment. Various approaches have been adopted to identify new and more effective photosensitizers (PSs) that reduce adverse effects. In this context, it is suggested that squaraine dyes could potentially overcome the disadvantages associated with conventional PSs. Moreover, conjugating targeting agents such as folic acid (FA) to these PSs is suggested as a promising approach that can provide rational solutions for their applications in PDT. In this study, the SQ-FA compound, obtained by conjugation of squaraine dye and folic acid (SQ-FA), was synthesized, its structure was characterized by various methods, and cytotoxicity studies were presented. SQ-FA is designed as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for use in cancer treatment for human lung carcinoma epithelial cells (A549). In addition, biocompatibility studies of dermal fibroblast cell lines (L929) were carried out. SQ-FA can function as a PS and be used as a targeting agent. Spectroscopic analysis and optical properties of SQ-FA, a new dye belonging to the squaraine family, were investigated.
Insights
Researchers developed a new squaraine dye-folic acid conjugate (SQ-FA) for photodynamic therapy (PDT). This targeted approach shows promise for treating lung cancer by improving photosensitizer effectiveness and reducing side effects.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Oncology
Background:
- Conventional cancer treatments face challenges like drug resistance and poor selectivity.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) offers a promising, less invasive alternative for cancer treatment.
- Developing novel photosensitizers (PSs) is crucial for enhancing PDT efficacy and minimizing adverse effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and characterize a novel squaraine dye-folic acid conjugate (SQ-FA) for targeted cancer therapy.
- To evaluate the potential of SQ-FA as a photosensitizer and targeting agent in photodynamic therapy.
- To assess the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of the SQ-FA compound for potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of the SQ-FA conjugate by combining a squaraine dye with folic acid.
- Structural characterization of SQ-FA using various analytical techniques.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays on human lung carcinoma cells (A549) and biocompatibility studies on fibroblast cells (L929).
- Spectroscopic analysis and investigation of optical properties of the SQ-FA compound.
Main Results:
- Successful synthesis and characterization of the novel SQ-FA conjugate.
- Demonstrated potential of SQ-FA as both a photosensitizer and a targeting agent for cancer cells.
- Preliminary cytotoxicity and biocompatibility data suggest potential for diagnostic and therapeutic use.
- Detailed spectroscopic and optical properties of the new squaraine-based dye were elucidated.
Conclusions:
- The synthesized SQ-FA conjugate represents a promising advancement in targeted photodynamic therapy for lung cancer.
- SQ-FA exhibits dual functionality as a photosensitizer and a targeted delivery agent, addressing limitations of conventional therapies.
- Further research into SQ-FA could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment with reduced side effects.
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