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Photodynamic therapy of cancer: Search for ideal photosensitizer

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Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive and promising new modality to combat cancer. The method is based on selective accumulation of sensitizers in tumor cells. The high degree of selectivity offered by this modality has been applied for fluorescent diagnostics of cancer. Photosensitization of a tissue-localized sensitizer in the presence of oxygen generates cytotoxic reactive oxygen species results in the selective destruction of tumor. The PDT’s major advantages compared to traditional methods of cancer treatment are better selectivity, and low toxicity of administered drugs. This review highlights basic principles of this method, mechanisms underlying damage of tumor tissue and first and second generations of sensitizers. Future developments in PDT will include the development of new methods of treatment and diagnostics of tumor diseases.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Biomedical Chemitry, Russian Academy of Medical Chemistry, Moscow, 119121, Russia

    N. V. Kudinova & T. T. Berezov

  2. Department of Biochemistry, Medical School, People’s Friendship University, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 10, Moscow, 117198, Russia

    T. T. Berezov

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  1. N. V. Kudinova
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  2. T. T. Berezov
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Correspondence to N. V. Kudinova.

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Original Russian Text © N.V. Kudinova, T.T. Berezov, 2010, published in Biomeditsinskaya Khimiya.

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Kudinova, N.V., Berezov, T.T. Photodynamic therapy of cancer: Search for ideal photosensitizer. Biochem. Moscow Suppl. Ser. B 4, 95–103 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1134/S1990750810010129

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