Photodynamic Therapy 2023

A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmaceutical Technology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 June 2024 | Viewed by 7189

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Guest Editor
LRGP, Laboratoire Réactions et Génie des Procédés, UMR 7274 CNRS-Université de Lorraine, 1 rue Grandville, 54000 Nancy, France
Interests: photodynamic therapy; cancer; photosensitizer; nanoparticles; targeting; fluorescence
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-based photochemistry process. The illumination of a photoactivatable molecule (also called photosensitizer) with visible or near infrared light produces reactive oxygen toxic species to destroy tumor cells. This treatment modality leads to highly targeted actions because reactive oxygen species are produced only where light is applied. Light is not harmful, nor is the photoactivable molecule. Only the combination of three elements (photosensitizer, oxygen, and light) is required to induce photo-oxidation reactions. PDT has proven to be a promising modality in many medical applications, including cutaneous conditions, infectious diseases, and various cancers at different stages.

The journal Pharmaceuticals invites both reviews and original articles shedding light on the challenges and opportunities of the development of innovative solutions for photodynamic therapy. Topics include selective photoactivatable molecules targeting receptors overexpressed into tumor membranes and/or on neovessels; molecules exhibiting red shifted absorption for better penetration of light into tissues; photobactericidal agents; theranostics; and photodiagnosis. Reviews and original articles dealing with PDT-associated immunotherapy, new radiation systems such as X-rays, or new devices allowing for better illumination and/or dosimetry are also welcome.

Dr. Céline Frochot
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • photodynamic therapy
  • photosensitizers
  • nanoparticles
  • photodiagnosis
  • targeting
  • antimicrobial
  • X-rays excitation
  • two photon and upconversion
  • immunomodulation
  • dosimetry
  • hypoxia

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 4138 KiB  
Article
Advantages of Long-Wavelength Photosensitizer meso-Tetra(3-pyridyl) Bacteriochlorin in the Therapy of Bulky Tumors
by Ekaterina Plotnikova, Elena Nemtsova, Maxim Abakumov, Nikita Suvorov, Andrey Pankratov, Peter Shegai and Andrey Kaprin
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(12), 1708; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16121708 - 09 Dec 2023
Viewed by 830
Abstract
This research presents a novel synthetic photosensitizer for the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of malignant tumors: meso-tetra(3-pyridyl) bacteriochlorin, which absorbs at 747 nm (in the long-wavelength region of the spectrum) and is stable when stored in the dark. H2Py4BC demonstrates [...] Read more.
This research presents a novel synthetic photosensitizer for the photodynamic therapy (PDT) of malignant tumors: meso-tetra(3-pyridyl) bacteriochlorin, which absorbs at 747 nm (in the long-wavelength region of the spectrum) and is stable when stored in the dark. H2Py4BC demonstrates pronounced photoinduced activity in vitro against tumor cells of various geneses (IC50 varies from 21 to 68 nM for HEp2, EJ, S37, CT26, and LLC cultured cells) and in vivo provides pronounced antitumor efficacy in the treatment of mice bearing small or large S37, Colo26, or LLC metastatic tumors, as well as in the treatment of rats bearing RS-1 liver cholangioma. As a result, total regression of primary tumor nodules and cure of 40 to 100% of the animals was proven by the experiment criteria, MRI, and histological analysis. Meso-tetra(3-pyridyl) bacteriochlorin quickly penetrates and accumulates in the tumor tissue and internal organs of mice, and after 24 h, 80% of the dye is excreted from the skin in addition to 87–92% from the liver, kidneys, and spleen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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10 pages, 445 KiB  
Article
Is a 4 J/cm2 PpIX-Weighted Simulated Daylight (SDL-PDT) Dose Still Efficient for Photodynamic Therapy of Actinic Keratosis?
by Mathilde Fronville, Muriel Creusot and Serge R. Mordon
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(10), 1454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16101454 - 13 Oct 2023
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Background: Several solutions are now proposed to provide indoor illumination with so-called artificial white light or simulated daylight (SDL-PDT), resulting in an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK). However, the optimal PpIX-weighted light dose is still debated. Integrating the effective irradiance [...] Read more.
Background: Several solutions are now proposed to provide indoor illumination with so-called artificial white light or simulated daylight (SDL-PDT), resulting in an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK). However, the optimal PpIX-weighted light dose is still debated. Integrating the effective irradiance over the irradiation time yields the effective light dose, which is also known as the protoporphyrin IX-weighted light dose and is a key parameter for the efficacy of the treatment. Objectives: The paper aims to report the clinical outcomes of SDL-PDT when using the PpIX-weighted light dose of 4 J/cm2, in patients treated for AK lesions of the scalp or the face at our medical dermatology center (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT052036). Methods: A total of 30 patients (16 males, 14 females), with a mean age of 71.0 ± 10.2, with phototype 1 (16 patients) and phototype 2 (14 patients) with grade I–II AK were treated with a drug light interval (DLI) of 10 min and a light exposure of 35 min (Dermaris, Surgiris, Croix, France), corresponding to a PpIX-weighted light dose of 4 J/cm2. The primary endpoint was the cure rate of patients at six months post-treatment. Secondary endpoints included scores of pain, erythema, crusts, and discomfort during or/and post the treatment. Results: In total, 762 AK were treated. Six months following treatment, the cure rate of the patients was 77%. The median pain score was less than 1 out of 10 for most of the patients. Erythema was observed in all patients and lasted 3 days (±1.5 day). Crusts were seen in 28 patients. Discomfort was reported as mild or less in more than 97% of patients. Conclusions: The shortening of the PpIX-weighted light dose to 4 J/cm2, corresponding to an illumination duration of 35 min with the Dermaris, does not modify the efficacy of the SDL-PDT. This observation is in agreement with recent published data demonstrating that the light dose can be reduced. Furthermore, this clinical study confirmed that SDL-PDT is an effective and nearly painless treatment with minimal side effects for patients with AK lesions of the scalp. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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12 pages, 2223 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Antifungal Treatment of Candida albicans with Hypericin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers in Hydrogels: Characterization, In Vitro, and In Vivo Photodynamic Evaluation
by Mariana Rillo Sato, João Augusto Oshiro-Junior, Camila Fernanda Rodero, Fernanda Isadora Boni, Victor Hugo Sousa Araújo, Taís Maria Bauab, Dean Nicholas, John Francis Callan and Marlus Chorilli
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(8), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16081094 - 01 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1065
Abstract
Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a worldwide public health problem caused predominantly by the opportunistic polymorphic fungus Candida albicans, whose pathogenicity is associated with its morphological adaptability. To potentiate the treatment of C. albicans-induced VVC by an alternative method as photodynamic [...] Read more.
Background: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a worldwide public health problem caused predominantly by the opportunistic polymorphic fungus Candida albicans, whose pathogenicity is associated with its morphological adaptability. To potentiate the treatment of C. albicans-induced VVC by an alternative method as photodynamic therapy (PDT), hypericin (Hy), a potent photosensitizer compound was incorporated into a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) and dispersed in hydrogel (HG). Methods: After preparation of the sonication process, an NLC loaded with Hy was dispersed in HG based on Poloxamer 407 and chitosan obtaining Hy.NLC-HG. This hydrogel system was physically and chemically characterized and its in vitro and in vivo photodynamic and antifungal effects were evaluated. Results: Through scanning electron microscopy, it was possible to observe a hydrogel system with a porous polymeric matrix and irregular microcavities. The Hy.NLC-HG system showed mucoadhesive properties (0.45 ± 0.08 N) and a satisfactory injectability (15.74 ± 4.75 N.mm), which indicates that it can be easily applied in the vaginal canal, in addition to a controlled and sustained Hy release profile from the NLC-HG of 28.55 ± 0.15% after 720 min. The in vitro antibiofilm assay significantly reduced the viability of C. albicans (p < 0.001) by 1.2 log10 for Hy.NLC-HG/PDT and 1.9 log10 for PS/PDT, Hy.NLC/PDT, and free RB/PDT, compared to the PBS/PDT negative control. The in vivo antifungal evaluation showed that animals treated with the vaginal cream (non-PDT) and the PDT-mediated Hy.NLC-HG system showed a significant difference of p < 0.001 in the number of C. albicans colonies (log) in the vaginal canal, compared to the inoculation control group. Conclusions: Thus, we demonstrate the pharmaceutical, antifungal, and photodynamic potential of hydrogel systems for Hy vaginal administration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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Review

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17 pages, 679 KiB  
Review
Photodynamic Action of Curcumin and Methylene Blue against Bacteria and SARS-CoV-2—A Review
by Siu Kan Law, Albert Wing Nang Leung and Chuanshan Xu
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17010034 - 25 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1412
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has occurred for more than four years, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing COVID-19 is a strain of coronavirus, which presents high rates of morbidity around the world. Up to the present date, there are [...] Read more.
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has occurred for more than four years, and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causing COVID-19 is a strain of coronavirus, which presents high rates of morbidity around the world. Up to the present date, there are no therapeutics that can avert this form of illness, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be an alternative approach against SARS-CoV-2. Curcumin and methylene blue have been approved and used in clinical practices as a photosensitizer in PDT for a long time with their anti-viral properties and for disinfection through photo-inactivated SARS-CoV-2. Previously, curcumin and methylene blue with antibacterial properties have been used against Gram-positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Methods: To conduct a literature review, nine electronic databases were researched, such as WanFang Data, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer Link, SciFinder, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), without any regard to language constraints. In vitro and in vivo studies were included that evaluated the effect of PDT mediated via curcumin or methylene blue to combat bacteria and SARS-CoV-2. All eligible studies were analyzed and summarized in this review. Results: Curcumin and methylene blue inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated during the treatment of PDT with curcumin and methylene blue to prevent the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 on the ACE2 receptor and damage to the nucleic acids either DNA or RNA. It also modulates pro-inflammatory cytokines and attenuates the clotting effects of the host response. Conclusion: The photodynamic action of curcumin and methylene blue provides a possible approach against bacteria and SARS-CoV-2 infection because they act as non-toxic photosensitizers in PDT with an antibacterial effect, anti-viral properties, and disinfection functions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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Other

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8 pages, 1775 KiB  
Case Report
Cutaneous Alternariosis in Immunosuppressed Patients Treated with Photodynamic Therapy and Oral Antifungals, a Synergistic Strategy
by Pedro Gil-Pallares, Tamara Gracia-Cazaña, Marcial Álvarez-Salafranca, Marcos Antonio Gorgojo, Mar García-García, Antonio Beltrán-Rosel, Manuel Almenara-Blasco, Alba Navarro-Bielsa and Yolanda Gilaberte
Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(2), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17020245 - 13 Feb 2024
Viewed by 718
Abstract
Cutaneous alternariosis is a rare condition, more frequently presented in immunocompromised patients, which usually requires long courses of systemic antifungals that may interact with other medications. The presented series shows three cases of cutaneous alternariosis in immunocompromised patients and organ transplant recipients that [...] Read more.
Cutaneous alternariosis is a rare condition, more frequently presented in immunocompromised patients, which usually requires long courses of systemic antifungals that may interact with other medications. The presented series shows three cases of cutaneous alternariosis in immunocompromised patients and organ transplant recipients that were successfully treated with photodynamic therapy and oral antifungals, allowing a reduction in the systemic treatment duration and therefore decreasing the risk of side effects and drug interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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8 pages, 11395 KiB  
Case Report
Half-Fluence, Half-Dose Photodynamic Therapy: Less Direct Damage but More Inflammation?
by Thomas Desmettre, Martin A. Mainster and Gerardo Ledesma-Gil
Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(4), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16040494 - 27 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1276
Abstract
Objective: To present clinical findings and multimodal imaging of three patients who developed bacillary layer detachments (BALADs) shortly after half-fluence, half-dose (HFHD) verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT). Methods: Retrospective observational case series. Three patients were treated with HFHD-PDT for (1) macular neovascularisation five years [...] Read more.
Objective: To present clinical findings and multimodal imaging of three patients who developed bacillary layer detachments (BALADs) shortly after half-fluence, half-dose (HFHD) verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT). Methods: Retrospective observational case series. Three patients were treated with HFHD-PDT for (1) macular neovascularisation five years after resolved central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC), (2) persistent serous retinal detachment (SRD) from chronic CSC, and (3) neovascular age-related macular degeneration with persistent SRD despite intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy. Results: Each patient developed a BALAD after HFHD-PDT. Acute fulminant exudation caused subretinal fluid expansion into the inner photoreceptor layer, cleaving myoid from ellipsoid zones in the central macula. Subretinal fluid and the BALADs subsequently resolved over 6–8 weeks. Conclusions: The subretinal fluid and BALAD following HFHD-PDT were transient and did not cause photoreceptor damage over a 6-month follow-up period. We speculate that the reduced-impact HFHD protocol decreases direct tissue damage but increases proinflammatory cytokines. The long-term pathophysiological consequences of the resolved BALADs are unknown. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photodynamic Therapy 2023)
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