PEI-ce6

PEI-ce6 is a **polyethylenimine-chlorin e6 conjugate** developed as a photosensitizer system for antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT) and cancer therapy. It consists of **chlorin e6 (Ce6)**, a well-characterized photosensitizer, chemically linked to **polyethylenimine (PEI)**, a cationic polymer. The conjugation to PEI enhances the **cellular uptake, photostability, and aqueous solubility** of Ce6, while retaining its ability to generate **singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS)** upon light activation. The mechanism revolves around dual antibacterial and anticancer action: PEI-ce6 binds to the negatively charged microbial or tumor cell membranes due to the positive charge of PEI, increasing the deposition of Ce6 at the target site. Upon irradiation (typically red or near-infrared light), Ce6 enters an excited state, producing cytotoxic ROS that lead to cell death via **membrane disruption or apoptosis**. Studies show PEI-ce6 is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (notably Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) and can induce apoptosis in certain cancer cell types[3][5][1]. It has been evaluated primarily in preclinical research for **antimicrobial applications and photodynamic cancer therapy**.

Other names

PEI-Ce6PEI-Ce-6PEI-Ce 6PEI-ce6 conjugatePEI-ce-6 conjugatePEI-ce 6 conjugatePEI-chlorin e6