Research on Porphyrin and Related Compounds Used in Photodynamic Anticancer and Antimicrobial Therapy

Dear Colleagues,

The unique potential of a photodynamic effect in applications for the treatment of tumor cells and pathogens stems from its multitarget mechanism of action based on oxidative stress. Porphyrins are used as photosensitizers in both types of photodynamic therapies thanks to their good absorption of visible light as well as the ability to produce singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, they can be prepared through a large number of developed synthetic pathways as well as modifications of natural compounds, and can be stable molecules that are non-toxic in the dark. Their structure can be functionalized and modified in many different ways, which allows for the fine tuning of the desired properties.

This Special Issue aims to highlight recent advances in the design, synthesis, and characterization of porphyrin-based compounds, including porphyrin conjugates, toward new photosensitizers with improved properties for anticancer and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy. Improved characteristic(s) in this area can be one or more of the following: higher production of singlet oxygen/ROS, improved drug delivery and increased bioavailability, selectivity for target cells, increased cellular binding/uptake, specific organelle targeting, overpowering hypoxia, and multifunctional activity (including imaging). In achieving these goals, porphyrins can be used in new formulations, as well as in combination therapies, and it is desirable to show the achieving of a required photodynamic effect with lower drug concentrations and lower light doses. Original research articles are welcome in this Special Issue, which may include in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as reviews.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Nela Malatesti
Dr. Ivana Ratkaj
Guest Editors

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