Drug delivery systems for the photodynamic application of two photosensitizers belonging to the porphyrin family

Abstract Photodynamic therapy involves the concomitant action of three components, light with an appropriate wavelength, molecular oxygen, and a molecule, able to absorb electromagnetic radiation, called photosensitizer (PS). A fundamental aspect is bioavailability PS that directly related some physicochemical properties itself as it should feature certain degree lipophilicity easily cross cell membrane, however, at same time, be sufficiently water-soluble navigate in bloodstream. Consequently, use system for drug delivery becomes essential when photosensitizers high are considered. In this work, we present different systems, microemulsions, emulsions liposomes all capable carrying belonging porphyrin family: tetraphenyl (TPP) 4-hydroxyphenyl (THPP), which show relevant lipophilicity. series microemulsions (ME) (E) were prepared, among two formulations, one THPP TPP, have been chosen. The stability these carriers was monitored over time under various temperature conditions. With criteria, liposomal formulations also identified analyzed. four mentioned above (one ME, E liposomes) tested on SKOV3 tumor line comparing photodynamic activity versus aqueous/organic (DMSO) solution PSs. results proved excellent formulation enhance efficacy both porphyrins.