Development of Promising Red-Light-Induced Chitosan-Based Photocatalysts for Cancer Therapy

Cancer remains a global health challenge, with lung and skin cancers among the leading causes of mortality.Conventional treatments pose limitations, necessitating innovative approaches.This study explores the application of red-lightinduced chitosan-based photocatalysts for photodynamic therapy (PDT).The unique properties of chitosan nanoparticles, derived from chitin, and the photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) are leveraged for targeted cancer treatment.Chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized through chitin deacetylation and ionotropic gelation, reducing the size from 1300 kDa to ~50 kDa.PPIX-chitosan complexes were formed at varying ratios (1:1, 4:1, 16:1, and 160:1) and evaluated for cytotoxicity.A laser device emitting 660 nm red light activated the complexes.A549 lung cancer cells and SK-MEL-2 skin cancer cells were tested, and cell viability was performed.The chitosan nanoparticles exhibited successful formation.Cytotoxicity results revealed optimal chitosan to PPIX ratios of 16:1 and 160:1, minimizing adverse effects.Laser-activated PPIX-chitosan complexes demonstrated significant cell death in A549 and SK-MEL-2 cells, validating their efficacy in cancer treatment.This study pioneers using chitosan-based photocatalysts for cancer therapy, showcasing their potential in PDT.The environmentally friendly nature and cost-effectiveness of chitosan further contribute to its viability for mass production and broad clinical applications.