Nanotechnology-Empowered Photodynamic Therapy for Improved Oral Cancer Treatment

Oral cancer is the most prevalent type of head and neck cancer, usually affecting those 60 years of age and older. Oral cancer affects the lips and the first few sections of the tongue. Oral cancer has the potential to spread to other parts of the head and neck if treatment is not received. The oral cavity's squamous cells are where oral cancer begins. The Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality due to its effectiveness, selectivity, and minimal invasiveness.

To provide updated information, a review was conducted by searching electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to December 2024. Keywords such as "Oral cancer", "Photodynamic therapy", and "Photosensitizer" were employed to retrieve relevant literature, with emphasis placed on original research articles, reviews, and clinical studies. The selection criteria focused on recent advancements in PDT and nanotechnology applications for oral cancer.

The review highlights the use of synthetic and natural photosensitizers in PDT for oral cancer. Recently, nanotechnology has led to the development of nanformulated photosensitizers with improved safety as well as therapeutic efficacy.

PDT involves administering a photosensitizer-based light-sensitive medication, followed by exposure to laser light at a specific wavelength that targets the photosensitizer's absorption maxima. This may induce singlet oxygen and target diseased cells. With an emphasis on innovative photosensitizer-based nano formulations, this study focuses on the state of knowledge on PDT's uses in the treatment of oral cancer. The review emphasizes the promising role of nanotechnology-enhanced PDT as a minimally invasive and targeted approach for oral cancer therapy. It also addresses the role of oral microbiota, current challenges, and prospects. Overall, nano-PDT shows strong potential to improve outcomes and reduce recurrences.