dendrimer porphyrin micelle

Dendrimer porphyrin micelle (DP/M) is an experimental nanomedicine formulation designed for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photodynamic diagnosis (PDD). It consists of a third-generation aryl ether dendrimer porphyrin with a zinc core encapsulated within a polymeric micelle, typically composed of poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(L-lysine) or poly(aspartic acid) block copolymers. This micellar structure facilitates the selective accumulation of the photosensitizer in tumor tissues and neovascularized areas via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Upon activation by specific wavelengths of light (e.g., 635 nm), the dendrimer porphyrin generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) to induce localized cytotoxicity while minimizing dark toxicity. The formulation also exhibits intense fluorescence, allowing for simultaneous lesion detection and treatment. It has been investigated primarily by researchers at the University of Tokyo for indications such as esophageal cancer, lung carcinoma, and corneal neovascularization.

Other names

micelle-based photosensitizer loading dendrimer porphyrindendrimer porphyrin-loaded micelle