Second generation photodynamic agents: a review.
Over the last decade, laser treatment of neoplastic diseases has become routine.  The ability of these light-induced therapies to effect positive results is increased with the utilization of photosensitizing dyes.  The approval of Photofrin in Canada as a first generation photodynamic therapeutic agent for the treatment of some forms of bladder cancer is being followed by the development of other agents with improved properties.  At this time a number of second generation photosensitizing dyes are under study in phase I/II clinical trials. A review of the status of these trials along with mechanistic aspects is reviewed in this article.  In addition, a review of the status of lasers to be utilized for photodynamic therapy gives some indication of which instruments could be considered for this therapy in the future.
Sternberg
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Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
Dolphin
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D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005544:Forecasting; D006415:Hematoporphyrins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D015394:Molecular Structure; D010778:Photochemotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000639:trends; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome