Peptide directed phthalocyanine-gold nanoparticles for selective photodynamic therapy of EGFR overexpressing cancers

Gold nanoparticles, covalently functionalised with the photosensitiser C11Pc and PEG, were actively targeted towards epidermal growth factor receptor overexpressing cancers using the peptide FITC-beta AAEYLRK. Selective phototoxicity was observed at nanomolar concentrations with minimal dark toxicity.

Automated summary

The study utilized functionalized gold nanoparticles to target cancer cells overexpressing epidermal growth factor receptor, achieving selective phototoxicity through the photosensitizer with minimal impact on normal cells.