Nanoscale metal-organic framework for highly effective photodynamic therapy of resistant head and neck cancer.

ABSTRACT: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an effective anticancer procedure that relies on tumor localization of a photosensitizer followed by light activation to generate cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (e.g., (1)O2). Here we report the rational design of a Hf-porphyrin nanoscale metal-organic framework, DBP-UiO, as an exceptionally effective photosensitizer for PDT of resistant head and neck cancer. DBP-UiO efficiently generates (1)O2 owing to site isolation of porphyrin ligands, enhanced intersystem crossing by heavy Hf centers, and facile (1)O2 diffusion through porous DBP-UiO nanoplates. Consequently, DBP-UiO displayed greatly enhanced PDT efficacy both in vitro and in vivo, leading to complete tumor eradication in half of the mice receiving a single DBP-UiO dose and a single light exposure. NM

SUBMITTER: Lu K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4277757 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature