Shining a Light on Prostate Cancer: Photodynamic Therapy and Combination Approaches

Photodynamic anti-cancer therapy and arachidonic acid metabolism: State of the art in 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising and evolving modality in cancer treatment leveraging light-sensitive compounds known as photosensitizers to selectively induce cell death in malignant tissues through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review delves into the intricate mechanisms of PDT highlighting the pivotal role of photosensitizers and the resultant oxidative stress that damages cancer cells. It explores the versatile applications of PDT across various cancer types alongside the advantages and limitations inherent to this therapy. Recent technological advancements including improved photosensitizers and novel light delivery systems are also discussed. Additionally the review examines the critical role of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism in cancer progression detailing the cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase and cytochrome P450 pathways and their contributions to tumor biology. By elucidating the interplay between PDT and AA metabolism the review underscores the potential of targeting AA metabolic pathways to enhance PDT efficacy. Finally it provides clinical and translational perspectives highlighting ongoing research and future directions aimed at optimizing PDT for improved cancer treatment outcomes.

Advances in the Design of Photoactivatable Metallodrugs: Excited State Metallomics

Photoactivatable metal complexes offer the prospect of novel drugs with low side effects and new mechanisms of action to combat resistance to current therapy. We highlight recent progress in the design of platinum, ruthenium, iridium, gold and other transition metal complexes, especially for applications as anticancer and anti-infective agents. In particular, understanding excited state chemistry related to identification of the bioactive species (excited state metallomics/pharmacophores) is important. Photoactivatable metallodrugs are classified here as photocatalysts, photorelease agents and ligand-activated agents. Their activation wavelengths, cellular mechanisms of action, experimental and theoretical metallomics of excited states and photoproducts are discussed to explore new strategies for the design and investigation of photoactivatable metallodrugs. These photoactivatable metallodrugs have potential in clinical applications of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), Photoactivated Chemotherapy (PACT) and Photothermal Therapy (PTT).

Metal nanoparticles as a promising therapeutic approach for prostate cancer diagnosis and therapy: a comprehensive review

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of mortality among men worldwide, particularly in the USA and European nations, with an estimated 1.9 million new cases and over 580,000 deaths annually, according to recent global statistics. The treatment of prostate tumors presents significant clinical challenges, due to the disease's high metastatic potential, specifically to vital organs, such as the liver, lungs, bones, and brain. The intrinsic heterogeneity of prostate cancer cells, characterized by diverse genetic, molecular, and phenotypic profiles, complicates conventional therapeutic strategies, highlighting the need for advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities. Nanoparticles play a critical role in oncology field due to their unique physicochemical properties, including high surface area-to-volume ratio and the ability to be functionalized with targeting ligands. Metallic-based nanoparticles exhibits significant potential for applications in field of nanomedicine, drug delivery systems, gene silencing methods, radiotherapy enhancement, cancer diagnostics, and targeted therapeutic interventions. Metal nanoparticles have substantially improved the sensitivity and specificity of major imaging modalities and have demonstrated remarkable efficacy as biosensors for the detection of prostate cancer-specific biomarkers. This review article provides an in-depth analysis of the utilization of metal nanomaterials in prostate cancer, focusing on their roles in enhancing therapeutic efficacy, advancing diagnostic precision, and supporting the development of novel treatment strategies.

Application of fatty acid-based eutectic mixture as a phase change material in microencapsulation of drugs: preparation, characterization and release behavior

Recently, microencapsulation has developed in various industries with its versatile applications. Its profound impact is particularly notable in the chemical, food, and pharmaceutical sectors. Among its research areas, the microencapsulation of drugs using phase change materials (PCMs) stands out as a groundbreaking advancement in drug delivery systems. This innovative approach involves encasing drugs within a PCM shell, significantly enhancing their stability and delivery regulation. The focus of our study is the microencapsulation of certain drugs with poor water solubility namely, cyclosporine, baclofen, and biotin within a bio-based PCM. It has identified PCMs with phase transition temperatures near human body temperature ( 310 K) as ideal candidates for this purpose. A eutectic mixture of stearic-lauric acid in a 1:3 mole ratio was selected for its optimal phase change properties to create microcapsules with core-shell morphology in spherical form. Our comprehensive characterization of the microcapsules, validated by FT-IR and SEM techniques, confirms their proper formation. All studied drugs microencapsulated with the PCM exhibited an excellent thermal stability at working temperature from thermal stability analysis based on TGA results. Furthermore, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests conducted on the microencapsulated drugs obtained the melting point of all three microencapsulated drugs near the melting point of PCM. Also, the release behavior of drugs from drug delivery method was investigated in PBS (pH 7.4) and two temperatures (310.15 and 318.15) K. Drug release occurred sustainably, such that 50% and about 60% of the total of each drug was released from the microcapsules at mentioned temperatures respectively during 24 h.

Cutting-Edge Advances in Anticancer Therapies: Insights from the Third Edition of the Special Issue "Novel Anticancer Strategies"

Cancer incidence and mortality continue to rise at an alarming rate worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for more effective therapeutic interventions [...].

Photodynamic Therapy: Past, Current, and Future

The Greek roots of the word "photodynamic" are as follows: "phos" (φω~ς) means "light" and "dynamis" (δύναμις) means "force" or "power". Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative treatment method based on the ability of photosensitizers to produce reactive oxygen species after the exposure to light that corresponds to an absorbance wavelength of the photosensitizer, either in the visible or near-infrared range. This process results in damage to pathological cancer cells, while minimizing the impact on healthy tissues. PDT is a promising direction in the treatment of many diseases, with particular emphasis on the fight against cancer and other diseases associated with excessive cell growth. The power of light contributed to the creation of phototherapy, whose history dates back to ancient times. It was then noticed that some substances exposed to the sun have a negative effect on the body, while others have a therapeutic effect. This work provides a detailed review of photodynamic therapy, from its origins to the present day. It is surprising how a seemingly simple beam of light can have such a powerful healing effect, which is used not only in dermatology, but also in oncology, surgery, microbiology, virology, and even dentistry. However, despite promising results, photodynamic therapy still faces many challenges. Moreover, photodynamic therapy requires further research and improvement.

Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted NIR Phototheranostics for Prostate Cancer

The evolution of targeted cancer theranostics has revolutionized personalized medicine by integrating diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has emerged as a key theranostic target in the context of prostate cancer, paving the way for the clinical approval of multiple drugs. However, the persistent challenge of off-target toxicity, which plagues both conventional and advanced treatment modalities such as targeted chemotherapy and radiotherapy, thus demands further innovation. Considering this critical issue, this review discusses the recent advances in the binary treatment techniques, i.e., phototherapies, that have the potential to circumvent the key concern of off-target toxicity associated with personalized chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Precisely, an up-to-date overview of the latest developments in the near-infrared (NIR)-based phototheranostic strategies for prostate cancer by targeting PSMA has been presented. Furthermore, we have discussed the associated particulars that require specific attention in enhancing the translational potential of phototheranostic techniques.

Efficacy of photodynamic therapy using hematoporphyrin derivative nanomedicine on hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Objective: To demonstrate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) nanomedicine in combination with conventional chemotherapy based on gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapy. Methods: HPD nanomedicine was prepared, and the cytotoxicity of HPD nanomedicine at different concentrations on HCC cells and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) were analyzed. Sixty HCC patients who visited our hospital from 2021 to 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patient data were analyzed, with 30 cases in control group (CG) receiving conventional chemotherapy for HCC, and 30 cases in observation group (OG) receiving conventional chemotherapy combined with HPD nanomedicine PDT. Gd-DTPA MRI was utilized to monitor the morphological and biological characteristics of the lesions in patients. After treatment completion, the long-term efficacy of patients and the levels of bcl-2 and bax proteins in primary HCC cells were evaluated. Results: The IC50 values of HPD on HepG2 cell proliferation and the cell inhibition rates gradually increased with increasing doses of HPD (50 μM, 25 μM, 12.5 μM, 6.25 μM, 3.13 μM, 1.56 μM, 0.78 μM). HPD exhibited great anti-proliferative effects on HepG2 cells at relatively low concentrations. The differences in expression rates of bcl-2 protein and bax protein between groups were considerable (P<0.05). There were neglectable changes in AST and ALT levels between the two groups before treatment, but they were markedly reduced after treatment versus before treatment (P<0.05), with OG showing considerably lower levels than CG after treatment (P<0.05). Additionally, patients in OG exhibited better survival rates after the course of treatment versus those in CG. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the combination of conventional chemotherapy based on Gd-DTPA MRI with HPD nanomedicine PDT greatly improves the efficacy of treatment for HCC patients. This combined treatment strategy not only enhances therapeutic outcomes but also alleviates adverse reactions associated with conventional treatment, providing a novel approach for future research in the treatment of HCC.

Orbea variegata (L.) Haw in skin carcinogenesis: insights from an in vivo male Swiss mouse model study

Skin cancer is the most widespread type of malignant tumor representing a major public health concern. Considering the numerous side effects associated with conventional treatments, phytotherapy may be regarded as a viable medicinal alternative. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of Orbea variegata (L.) Haw, an ornamental plant, in treating skin cancer using an animal model induced by a combination of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and sulfuric acid treatment. The hydroethanolic extract of Orbea variegata underwent phytochemical characterization, identifying the presence of reducing sugars, coumarins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins through qualitative screening. Quantitative analysis demonstrated significant amounts of phenolic compounds (29.435 ± 0.571 mg GAE/g of dry extract), flavonoids (6.711 ± 0.272 mg QE/g of dry extract), and tannins (274.037 ± 11.3 mg CE/g of dry extract). The administration the hydroethanolic extract in two concentrations (1 or 2 g/kg) to male Swiss mice exhibited no marked adverse effects, as evidenced by serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) enzyme activity levels. In addition, the extract significantly reduced skin hyperplasia and inflammation induced by UV/sulfuric acid treatment as noted in tissue analyses and decreased protein expression of nuclear proliferation marker (Ki-67). This improvement was associated with a marked decrease in oxidative stress, as indicated by diminished lipid peroxidation levels, and restoration of the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) to control levels. Our findings demonstrated the potential of Orbea variegata hydroethanolic extract to be considered as a treatment for skin cancer, exhibiting its apparent safety and efficacy in reducing inflammation and carcinogenesis in a UV/sulfuric acid-induced Swiss mouse model, attributed to its phytochemical content and associated antioxidant activities.

Phyto-Photodynamic Therapy of Prostate Cancer Cells Mediated by Yemenite 'Etrog' Leave Extracts

Cancer therapy, from malignant tumor inhibition to cellular eradication treatment, remains a challenge, especially regarding reduced side effects and low energy consumption during treatment. Hence, phytochemicals as cytotoxic sensitizers or photosensitizers deserve special attention. The dark and photo-response of Yemenite 'Etrog' leaf extracts applied to prostate PC3 cancer cells is reported here. An XTT cell viability assay along with light microscope observations revealed pronounced cytotoxic activity of the extract for long exposure times of 72 h upon concentrations of 175 μg/mL and 87.5 μg/mL, while phototoxic effect was obtained even at low concentration of 10.93 μg/mL and a short introduction period of 1.5 h. For the longest time incubation of 72 h and for the highest extract concentration of 175 μg/mL, relative cell survival decreased by up to 60% (below the IC50). In combined phyto-photodynamic therapy, a reduction of 63% compared to unirradiated controls was obtained. The concentration of extract in cells versus the accumulation time was inversely related to fluorescence emission intensity readings. Extracellular ROS production was also shown. Based on an ATR-FTIR analysis of the powdered leaves and their liquid ethanolic extract, biochemical fingerprints of both polar and non-polar phyto-constituents were identified, thereby suggesting their implementation as phyto-medicine and phyto-photomedicine.

A metal-organic framework (MOF) built on surface-modified Cu nanoparticles eliminates tumors via multiple cascading synergistic therapeutic effects

Tumors produce a hypoxic environment that greatly influences cancer treatment, and conventional chemotherapeutic drugs cannot selectively accumulate in the tumor region because of the lack of a tumor targeting mechanism, causing increased systemic toxicities and side effects. Hence, designing and developing new nanoplatforms that combine multimodal therapeutic regimens is essential to improve tumor therapeutic efficacy. Herein, we report the synthesis of ultrafine Cu nanoparticles loaded with a drug combination of cisplatin (Pt) and 1-methyl-d-tryptophan (1-MT) and externally coated with 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) photosensitizer, polydopamine (PDA) and CaO2 of MIL-101(Fe) as a new nanoplatform (Cu@MIL-101@PMTPC). The nanoplatform synergistically combined chemodynamic therapy (CDT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and immunochemotherapy. The Fe3+ in MIL-101(Fe) and the surface Cu nanoparticles exhibited strong ability to consume intracellular glutathione (GSH), thereby generating a Fenton-like response in the tumor microenvironment (TME) with substantial peroxidase (POD)-like and superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activities. In this design, we used the indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibitor 1-MT to overcome chemotherapy-induced immune escape phenomena including enhanced CD8+ and CD4+ T cell expression, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) production, and accelerated immunogenic cell death. The targeted release of cisplatin loaded into Cu@MIL-101@PMTPC also reduced toxic side effects of chemotherapy. TCPP generated a large amount of singlet oxygen (1O2) upon specific laser irradiation to effectively kill tumor cells. CaO2 on the outer layer generated oxygen (O2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to ameliorate hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment, enhance the PDT effect, and provide a continuous supply of H2O2 for the Fenton-like reaction. Thus, this nanocarrier platform exhibited a powerful chemodynamic, photodynamic, and immunochemotherapeutic cascade, providing a new strategy for cancer treatment.

Photodynamic Therapy for Eye, Ear, Laryngeal Area, and Nasal and Oral Cavity Diseases: A Review

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has emerged as a promising modality for the treatment of various diseases. This non-invasive approach utilizes photosensitizing agents and light to selectively target and destroy abnormal cells, providing a valuable alternative to traditional treatments. Research studies have explored the application of PDT in different areas of the head. Research is focusing on a growing number of new developments and treatments for cancer. One of these methods is PDT. Photodynamic therapy is now a revolutionary, progressive method of cancer therapy. A very important feature of PDT is that cells cannot become immune to singlet oxygen. With this therapy, patients can avoid lengthy and costly surgeries. PDT therapy is referred to as a safe and highly selective therapy. These studies collectively highlight the potential of PDT as a valuable therapeutic option in treating the head area. As research in this field progresses, PDT may become increasingly integrated into the clinical management of these conditions, offering a balance between effectiveness and minimal invasiveness.

Ursolic Acid's Alluring Journey: One Triterpenoid vs. Cancer Hallmarks

Cancer is a multifactorial disease characterized by various hallmarks, including uncontrolled cell growth, evasion of apoptosis, sustained angiogenesis, tissue invasion, and metastasis, among others. Traditional cancer therapies often target specific hallmarks, leading to limited efficacy and the development of resistance. Thus, there is a growing need for alternative strategies that can address multiple hallmarks concomitantly. Ursolic acid (UA), a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid, has recently emerged as a promising candidate for multitargeted cancer therapy. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the anticancer properties of UA, focusing on its ability to modulate various cancer hallmarks. The literature reveals that UA exhibits potent anticancer effects through diverse mechanisms, including the inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis, inhibition of metastasis, and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, UA has demonstrated promising activity against different cancer types (e.g., breast, lung, prostate, colon, and liver) by targeting various cancer hallmarks. This review discusses the molecular targets and signaling pathways involved in the anticancer effects of UA. Notably, UA has been found to modulate key signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK/ERK, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin, which play crucial roles in cancer development and progression. Moreover, the ability of UA to destroy cancer cells through various mechanisms (e.g., apoptosis, autophagy, inhibiting cell growth, dysregulating cancer cell metabolism, etc.) contributes to its multitargeted effects on cancer hallmarks. Despite promising anticancer effects, this review acknowledges hurdles related to UA's low bioavailability, emphasizing the need for enhanced therapeutic strategies.

Natural Chalcones and Derivatives in Colon Cancer: Pre-Clinical Challenges and the Promise of Chalcone-Based Nanoparticles

Colon cancer poses a complex and substantial global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic approaches. Chalcones, a versatile class of compounds with diverse pharmacological properties, have emerged as promising candidates for addressing colon cancer. Their ability to modulate pivotal signaling pathways in the development and progression of colon cancer makes them invaluable as targeted therapeutics. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that although chalcones exhibit promise, further pre-clinical studies are required to validate their efficacy and safety. The journey toward effective colon cancer treatment is multifaceted, involving considerations such as optimizing the sequencing of therapeutic agents, comprehending the resistance mechanisms, and exploring combination therapies incorporating chalcones. Furthermore, the integration of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems presents a novel avenue for enhancing the effectiveness of chalcones in colon cancer treatment. This review delves into the mechanisms of action of natural chalcones and some derivatives. It highlights the challenges associated with their use in pre-clinical studies, while also underscoring the advantages of employing chalcone-based nanoparticles for the treatment of colon cancer.

The Promise of Piperine in Cancer Chemoprevention

Cancer, characterized by the unregulated growth and dissemination of malignantly transformed cells, presents a significant global health challenge. The multistage process of cancer development involves intricate biochemical and genetic alterations within target cells. Cancer chemoprevention has emerged as a vital strategy to address this complex issue to mitigate cancer's impact on healthcare systems. This approach leverages pharmacologically active agents to block, suppress, prevent, or reverse invasive cancer development. Among these agents, piperine, an active alkaloid with a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, has garnered attention for its potential in cancer prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores piperine's multifaceted role in inhibiting the molecular events and signaling pathways associated with various stages of cancer development, shedding light on its promising prospects as a versatile tool in cancer chemoprevention. Furthermore, the review will also delve into how piperine enhances the effectiveness of conventional treatments such as UV-phototherapy and TRAIL-based therapy, potentially synergizing with existing therapeutic modalities to provide more robust cancer management strategies. Finally, a crucial perspective of the long-term safety and potential side effects of piperine-based therapies and the need for clinical trials is also discussed.

Polyphenol-Based Nanoparticles: A Promising Frontier for Enhanced Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant challenge in healthcare, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Natural compounds such as polyphenols with inherent anticancer properties have gained attention as potential therapeutic agents. This review highlights the need for novel therapeutic approaches in CRC, followed by a discussion on the synthesis of polyphenols-based nanoparticles. Various synthesis techniques, including dynamic covalent bonding, non-covalent bonding, polymerization, chemical conjugation, reduction, and metal-polyphenol networks, are explored. The mechanisms of action of these nanoparticles, encompassing passive and active targeting mechanisms, are also discussed. The review further examines the intrinsic anticancer activity of polyphenols and their enhancement through nano-based delivery systems. This section explores the natural anticancer properties of polyphenols and investigates different nano-based delivery systems, such as micelles, nanogels, liposomes, nanoemulsions, gold nanoparticles, mesoporous silica nanoparticles, and metal-organic frameworks. The review concludes by emphasizing the potential of nanoparticle-based strategies utilizing polyphenols for CRC treatment and highlights the need for future research to optimize their efficacy and safety. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the synthesis, mechanisms of action, intrinsic anticancer activity, and enhancement of polyphenols-based nanoparticles for CRC treatment.