Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an attractive alternative for the treatment of certain cancers as the conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, show many side-effects and some cancers are refractory to these modalities. PDT can also destroy bacteria and bacterial biofilms, where it is sometimes referred to as photodynamic inactivation (PDI). PDT utilizes a special drug, classified as a photo-sensitizer (PS), which can be activated with light in the presence of oxygen to become a powerful anticancer or antibacterial agent. The cytotoxic effect results from the generation of singlet oxygen (and other reactive oxygen species (ROS)) in regions where only the PS, light, and oxygen overlap. There is ongoing interest in developing next-generation PSs that can exert light-driven anticancer and antimicrobial effects but without the need for oxygen. We are particularly focused on developing Ru- and Os-based PSs, where we can access a variety of excited states (with distinct properties and reactivities) by altering the ligand combinations around the metal center. Our TLD1433, a Ru-based metallodrug, is but one example and is currently in Phase II clinical trials for treating bladder cancer. TLD1433 and other Ru and Os-based PSs we have developed display possible modes of action that extend beyond ROS. Herein, we will discuss some of these possibilities that may contribute to their light-driven antitumor and antimicrobial effects.

Light-responsive metallodrugs for phototherapy

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.