Photosensitizers-Loaded Nanocarriers for Enhancement of Photodynamic Therapy in Melanoma Treatment

27Citations
Citations of this article
63Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

Malignant melanoma poses a significant global health burden. It is the most aggressive and lethal form of skin cancer, attributed to various risk factors such as UV radiation exposure, genetic modifications, chemical carcinogens, immunosuppression, and fair complexion. Photodynamic therapy is a promising minimally invasive treatment that uses light to activate a photosensitizer, resulting in the formation of reactive oxygen species, which ultimately promote cell death. When selecting photosensitizers for melanoma photodynamic therapy, the presence of melanin should be considered. Melanin absorbs visible radiation similar to most photosensitizers and has antioxidant properties, which undermines the reactive species generated in photodynamic therapy processes. These characteristics have led to further research for new photosensitizing platforms to ensure better treatment results. The development of photosensitizers has advanced with the use of nanotechnology, which plays a crucial role in enhancing solubility, optical absorption, and tumour targeting. This paper reviews the current approaches (that use the synergistic effect of different photosensitizers, nanocarriers, chemotherapeutic agents) in the photodynamic therapy of melanoma.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Udrea, A. M., Smarandache, A., Dinache, A., Mares, C., Nistorescu, S., Avram, S., & Staicu, A. (2023, August 1). Photosensitizers-Loaded Nanocarriers for Enhancement of Photodynamic Therapy in Melanoma Treatment. Pharmaceutics. Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI). https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15082124

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free