IR-780 iodide

IR‑780 iodide is a near-infrared (NIR) heptamethine cyanine dye with strong absorption and emission in the NIR region (maximum excitation wavelength around 777–780 nm). It is primarily used as a fluorescent probe for imaging applications and as a phototherapeutic agent. In cancer research, it serves as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT), where it generates reactive oxygen species upon irradiation to directly destroy cancer cells and enhance tumor immunogenicity. Additionally, its unique properties allow for selective accumulation in certain cell types such as human cancer stem cells via HIF‑1α/glycolysis-dependent mechanisms. The compound has also been incorporated into nanoparticle formulations for combined photothermal and chemotherapeutic strategies against tumors[1][2][4][5][6][7].

Other names

2-[2-[2-Chloro-3-[(1,3-dihydro-3,3-dimethyl-1-propyl-2H-indol-2-ylidene)ethylidene]-1-cyclohexen-1-yl]ethenyl]-3,3-dimethyl-1-propylindolium iodide207399–07–3