La thérapie photodynamique

Abstract

The photodynamic therapy, more exactly named dynamic photochemotherapy, is a new approach based on the combined action of a photoactive drug or photosensitizer, light and oxygen. These compounds are non toxic without appropriated light exposure but produce, after irradiation, reactive species in presence of molecular oxygen, leading to target tissue destruction. This article describes first the photosensitization molecular mechanisms, then the photophysical and chemical properties requested to obtain a « good » photosensitizer. In order to propose photosensitizers really adapted to therapeutic applications, more efficient and selective new photoactive compounds are elaborated. At last, the main application fields of photodynamic therapy, the limits and the future of this treatment are developed.