Cellular organelles via photodynamic effect

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a light-activated treatment that selectively ablates pathological cells (typically cancer) by generating cytotoxic reactive oxygen species in the presence of a photosensitizer. Targeting of cellular organelles—such as mitochondria, lysosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and the Golgi apparatus—is achieved by delivering photosensitizers that preferentially localize to these compartments. Upon photoactivation, localized oxidative damage leads to cell death via apoptosis or necrosis. Organelle-targeted PDT can enhance therapeutic efficacy and minimize systemic toxicity. While organelle targeting is central to PDT's mechanism, it is not a receptor, enzyme, or protein, but rather a method for inducing cell death in tumors or other pathological tissues. The scientific literature describes ongoing efforts to improve PDT specificity and efficacy by focusing on subcellular targeting strategies.

Other names

Cellular organelles (mitochondria, lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, etc.)Subcellular compartmentsOrganelle-targeted PDT

Generation of singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species following light exposure in the presence of a photosensitizer, leading to oxidative damage and cell death localized at organelles; Activation of intrinsic apoptosis (mitochondrial pathway); Lysosomal membrane permeabilization, leading to release of proteases and apoptosis; Endoplasmic reticulum stress/induction of immunogenic cell death.