Photosensitizers: Synthesis and Biomedical Applications

Photosensitizers are a class of molecules with unique light-absorbing properties, and they have emerged as versatile tools in biomedical applications (basic and clinical research). These compounds, designed for their ability to absorb light and transfer energy, find crucial roles in various medical uses. In the realm of infections and cancer treatment, photosensitizers shine in photodynamic therapy, where light activation with specific wavelength triggers the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS), selectively targeting to promote oxidation reactions of biomolecules present in pathogenic microorganisms and cancer cells. Additionally, these molecules contribute to photothermal therapy, leveraging their ability to convert light into heat for precise tissue ablation. Beyond their use in photodynamic therapy, photosensitizers play a pivotal role in sonodynamic therapy and offer a promising avenue for non-invasive treatment by utilizing ultrasound. Furthermore, the combined use of photosensitizers with commercial pharmaceuticals and immunotherapy showcases their potential in enhancing the efficiency of drugs applied in clinic and body's immune response against diseases. As research continues to unravel their full potential, photosensitizers stand poised at the forefront of transformative breakthroughs in medicine.

This Research Topic encompasses the design, synthesis, and characterization of photosensitizing molecules and their biophotonics applications. These molecules play a pivotal role in various cutting-edge applications, including photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and innovative combinations of photo-based strategies. The integration of photosensitizing agents with antimicrobial agents, cytotoxic agents, sonodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and photoacoustic techniques represents a multifaceted approach aimed at combating infections, cancer and other diseases.

We welcome Original Research, Review, Mini Review and Perspective articles on themes including, but not limited to:

• Synthesis and characterization of photosensitizers

• Photophysical and photochemical analysis of photosensitizers

• Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy

• Photodynamic therapy and its applications

• Functionalization of materials/polymers with photosensitizers

• Combinations of photo-based strategies with pharmaceuticals against infections and cancer

Keywords: Photosensitizer; photodynamic therapy; photothermal therapy; sonodynamic therapy; photoacoustic therapy

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.