Non-invasive Photodynamic Therapy in Brain Cancer by Use of Tb3+-Doped LaF3 Nanoparticles in Combination with Photosensitizer Through X-ray Irradiation: A Proof-of-Concept Study
Journal
Nanoscale Research Letters
Journal Volume
12
Journal Issue
1
Date Issued
2017
Author(s)
Abstract
The use of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of brain cancer has produced exciting results in clinical trials over the past decade. PDT is based on the concept that a photosensitizer exposed to a specific light wavelength produces the predominant cytotoxic agent, to destroy tumor cells. However, delivering an efficient light source to the brain tumor site is still a challenge. The light source should be delivered by placing external optical fibers into the brain at the time of surgical debulking of the tumor. Consequently, there exists the need for a minimally invasive treatment for brain cancer PDT. In this study, we investigated an attractive non-invasive option on glioma cell line by using Tb3+-doped LaF3 scintillating nanoparticles (LaF3:Tb) in combination with photosensitizer, meso-tetra(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (MTCP), followed by activation with soft X-ray (80?kVp). Scintillating LaF3:Tb nanoparticles, with sizes of approximately 25?nm, were fabricated. The particles have a good dispersibility in aqueous solution and possess high biocompatibility. However, significant cytotoxicity was observed in the glioma cells while the LaF3:Tb nanoparticles with MTCP were exposed under X-ray irradiation. The study has demonstrated a proof of concept as a non-invasive way to treat brain cancer in the future. ? 2017, The Author(s).
Subjects
Brain cancer; LaF3:Tb; Non-invasive; Photodynamic therapy; X-ray
SDGs
Other Subjects
Biocompatibility; Cell culture; Cytotoxicity; Diseases; Doping (additives); Irradiation; Lanthanum compounds; Light sources; Nanoparticles; Optical fiber fabrication; Optical fibers; Photodynamic therapy; Photosensitizers; Scintillation; Solutions; Terbium compounds; Tumors; Brain cancer; Glioma cell lines; LaF3 nanoparticles; Minimally invasive treatments; Non-invasive; Photodynamic therapy (PDT); Tetra (4 carboxyphenyl)porphyrin; X ray irradiation; X rays
Type
journal article