Porphyrin-based photosensitizers are conventional photodynamic agents applied in clinic. However, their clinic application has been overshadowed by the poor water solubility. In addition, they have weak tumor selectivity, which may cause undesirable side effects. The preparation of novel porphyrin derivatives has been explored for the potential application in photodynamic therapy (PDT). To achieve this goal, lactose-conjugated porphyrin nanoparticles (Lac-PorNPs) has been synthesized and characterized. PDT with Lac-PorNPs exhibits tumor-specific cytotoxicity in lactose receptor overexpressed HepG2 cells in vitro and in vivo. In summary, we designed and synthesized lactose conjugates porphyrin with enhanced water-solubility and tumor selectivity. This work expanded the application range of porphyrin-based photosensitizers for cancer treatment.
Lead structures for applications in photodynamic therapy 7. Efficient synthesis of amphiphilic glycosylated lipid porphyrin derivatives: refining linker conjugation for potential PDT applications
