Fluorescence lifetime imaging and phasor analysis of intracellular porphyrinic photosensitizers applied with different polymeric formulations.

The fluorescence lifetime of a porphyrinic photosensitizer (PS) is an important parameter to assess the aggregation state of the PS even in complex biological environments. Aggregation-induced quenching of the PS can significantly reduce the yield of singlet oxygen generation and thus its efficiency as a medical drug in photodynamic therapy (PDT) of diseased tissues. Hydrophobicity and the tendency to form aggregates pose challenges on the development of efficient PSs and often require carrier systems.

In Vitro Activities of Dithiocarbamate Derivatives against Metacestode Vesicles.

The metacestode stage of the fox tapeworm causes the severe zoonotic disease alveolar echinococcosis. New treatment options are urgently needed. Disulfiram and dithiocarbamates were previously shown to exhibit activity against the trematode As both parasites belong to the platyhelminths, here we investigated whether these compounds were also active against metacestode vesicles in vitro.

Intracellular Fate of the Photosensitizer Chlorin e4 with Different Carriers and Induced Metabolic Changes Studied by H NMR Spectroscopy.

Porphyrinic photosensitizers (PSs) and their nano-sized polymer-based carrier systems are required to exhibit low dark toxicity, avoid side effects, and ensure high in vivo tolerability. Yet, little is known about the intracellular fate of PSs during the dark incubation period and how it is affected by nanoparticles. In a systematic study, high-resolution magic angle spinning NMR spectroscopy combined with statistical analyses was used to study the metabolic profile of cultured HeLa cells treated with different concentrations of PS chlorin e4 (Ce4) alone or encapsulated in carrier systems.

Dual inhibition of the energy metabolism.

Alveolar echinococcosis is caused by the metacestode stage of the zoonotic parasite . Current chemotherapeutic treatment options rely on benzimidazoles, which have limited curative capabilities and can cause severe side effects. Thus, novel treatment options are urgently needed.