ABSTRACT
Photodynamic therapy is a non-invasive treatment techniqueto control infectious agents and to treat cancer. Photo toxicity is dependent on the generation of reactive oxygen species by the illuminated photosensitizer (PS) in the presence of oxygen. The toxic effect is selective and restricted to localized tissues. The simplicity and ease of the techniquemakes it an attractive one for the control of pathogens and the treatment of solid tumors. In recent years, the unique properties of nanomaterials and precision of nano delivery systems are exploited in photodynamic therapy. Enhanced permeability and retention(EPR) effect of nanomaterials are a boon to treat infection and drug-resistant cancers. Carbon nanomaterials, metal oxide nanomaterials and other nano weapons used in photodynamic therapy generate singlet oxygen inherently and increase the therapeutic index. This article briefly reviews the application of different nanomaterials in potentiating photodynamic therapy. Insights into the mechanism of potentiation with nanomaterials and advances in imaging techniques are also discussed.
