Bio-nanotechnology and photodynamic therapy - State of the art review

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and bio-nanotechnology (NT) show striking similarities in clinical design and mechanistics. The PDT paradigm of photosensitizer application, tight activation and singlet oxygen generation does in fact occur on the nanoscale level. as does the resultant outcomes. NT has the ability to explain as well as modify each of the critical steps of PDT particularly photosensitizer design and delivery, light source miniaturization and optimization, location and intensity of the photodynamic reaction as welt as offering a far greater insight into dosimetry and mechanisms of action. This review wilt explore the current and potential future interactions and modifications NT may have on PDT. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.