Photodynamic Tumor Therapy

The introductory section of this text provides a framework for standardizing results in biophysical terms. It is comprised of biophysical and biomedical definitions describing photosensitization and phototoxicity on the molecular and cellular level. The available data regarding naturally occurring and chemically synthesized compounds is grouped together into synoptic tables and graphs in the second section. The inclusion of preparation methods and purity control, as well as improved application schedules to cell cultures and experimental animals, makes this section extremely useful as a biomedical research laboratory manual. The concluding section is devoted to the potential future applications of these photosensitizers to photodynamic therapy in patients. The main topics include the necessary prerequisites for improved uptake of the sensitizers by tumor cells and inflamed tissue; tumor targeting by combined application of carrier systems and tumor specific monoclonal antibodies;