Nanotechnology-Empowered Photodynamic Therapy for Improved Oral Cancer Treatment

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Photochemistry

Background:

• Oral cancer is a prevalent head and neck cancer originating in the oral cavity's squamous cells.
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) presents a selective and minimally invasive therapeutic option.
• Effective treatment is crucial to prevent the spread of oral cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for oral cancer treatment.
• To explore the role of nanotechnology in enhancing PDT efficacy and safety.
• To summarize current knowledge, challenges, and future prospects of PDT in oral cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) up to December 2024.
• Keywords included "Oral cancer", "Photodynamic therapy", and "Photosensitizer".
• Focus on original research, reviews, and clinical studies detailing PDT and nanotechnology applications.

Main Results:

• Synthetic and natural photosensitizers are utilized in PDT for oral cancer.
• Nanotechnology has enabled the development of nanformulated photosensitizers, improving safety and therapeutic effectiveness.
• Nanotechnology-enhanced PDT demonstrates significant potential for targeted oral cancer therapy.

Conclusions:

• PDT utilizes photosensitizers activated by specific laser wavelengths to generate cytotoxic singlet oxygen, targeting diseased cells.
• Nanotechnology-enhanced PDT offers a minimally invasive and targeted approach for oral cancer treatment.
• Nano-PDT shows promise for improved outcomes and reduced recurrence rates in oral cancer management.