Nanocarrier-Mediated Photochemotherapy and Photoradiotherapy

Antonia G. Denkova, Robine M. de Kruijff, Pablo Serra-Crespo

Index: 10.1002/adhm.201701211

Full Text: HTML

Abstract

Abstract Photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) both utilize light to induce a therapeutic effect. These therapies are rapidly gaining importance due to the noninvasiveness of light and the limited adverse effect associated with these treatments. However, most preclinical studies show that complete elimination of tumors is rarely observed. Combining PDT and PTT with chemotherapy or radiotherapy can improve the therapeutic outcome and simultaneously decrease side effects of these conventional treatments. Nanocarriers can help to facilitate such a combined treatment. Here, the most recent advancements in the field of photochemotherapy and photoradiotherapy, in which nanocarriers are employed, are reviewed. Photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy both utilize light to induce a therapeutic effect. These therapies will benefit tremendously if combined with other therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Nanocarriers can help to facilitate such a combined treatment. In this paper, the most recent advancements in the field of photochemotherapy and photoradiotherapy in which nanocarriers are employed are reviewed.