The Translocator Protein (TSPO, 18kDa) as a Potential Molecular Target for Improved Treatment Efficacy in Photodynamic Therapy

Since it’s serendipitous discovery by researchers over thirty years ago, the translocator protein (18 kDa) (TSPO) has been demonstrated to play an important role in a multitude of critical biological processes. Although implemented as a novel therapeutic and diagnostic tool for a variety of disease states, its most promising role is as a molecular target for anti-cancer treatments such as photodynamic therapy (PDT). This review gives an overview of the attempts made by researchers to design porphyrin based photosensitizers for use as anti-cancer therapeutics in PDT as well as improved imaging agents for diagnostic purposes. With a better understanding of the structure and function of the TSPO, the synthesis of porphyrins for use in PDT with optimum binding affinities will become ever more possible. REVIEW│ROGERS AND SENGE