hyaluronic acid + methylene blue

Hyaluronic acid + methylene blue is a combination therapy being investigated for the treatment of skin and soft tissue tumors, particularly through photodynamic therapy (PDT). In this formulation, hyaluronic acid (HA) serves as a biocompatible carrier and targeting ligand that exploits the overexpression of CD44 receptors on tumor cells to enhance the localized delivery and cellular uptake of the photosensitizer, methylene blue (MB). Upon exposure to specific wavelengths of light (typically red light), methylene blue generates cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as singlet oxygen, which induce oxidative stress, leading to tumor cell apoptosis and necrosis. This targeted approach aims to improve the therapeutic index of PDT by increasing tumor selectivity and reducing off-target effects on healthy surrounding tissues. The development of this combination is notably associated with research and clinical trials conducted at The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital.

Other names

HA-MBmethylene blue-hyaluronic acidhyaluronic acid-modified methylene blue