Reactive oxygen species generation via photodynamic therapy (ROS generation via PDT (not universally standardized))

ROS generation via photodynamic therapy is a therapeutic process whereby light-activated photosensitizers, in the presence of molecular oxygen, produce reactive oxygen species (notably singlet oxygen, superoxide, and hydroxyl radicals) within target tissues. These highly reactive, short-lived ROS induce rapid cell death by oxidation of membrane lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, destroy tumor vasculature, and stimulate immune responses. ROS generation is essential for the efficacy of PDT and is not a single molecule or receptor, but rather a chemical outcome of the procedure. The location and intensity of ROS production depend on the distribution of the photosensitizer, light dosage, and tissue oxygenation. PDT effectiveness can be limited by tissue oxygen levels and light accessibility, and excessive ROS may pose risks of oxidative injury to healthy tissues.

Other names

PDT-induced ROSPhotogenerated ROSPDT-mediated oxidative burst

Photoactivation of photosensitizers generates ROS which then induce cell death and immune activation in targeted tissues