Cellular membranes and macromolecules affected by reactive oxygen species generated by verteporfin

The target refers to the broad array of cellular components, including lipid bilayers and functional proteins, that undergo oxidative damage during photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin [1, 3]. Verteporfin is a photosensitizing agent that selectively accumulates in neovascular endothelial cells, often mediated by binding to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors [2, 3]. Upon activation by a specific wavelength of red light (689 nm), the drug transfers energy to molecular oxygen, generating highly reactive singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) [1, 3]. These ROS cause immediate, localized damage to nearby lipids and proteins, resulting in lipid peroxidation and protein denaturation [3]. This process leads to cell death and the subsequent occlusion of abnormal blood vessels, which is the primary therapeutic goal in treating conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) [2, 3]. Additionally, verteporfin is recognized in research for its light-independent ability to inhibit the YAP/TAZ transcriptional co-activators, though its clinical efficacy in ophthalmology is driven by ROS-mediated membrane damage [4].

Other names

Cellular membranesMacromoleculesPlasma membraneMitochondrial membranesLysosomal membranesLipid bilayersCellular proteins

Generation of singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light activation, leading to localized lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation [1, 3].