Photosensitizer Delivery and Improved Anticancer Photodynamic Application Using Redox‐Sensitive Nanocarriers

Abstract This study introduces innovative redox‐sensitive polymeric nanocarriers designed to deliver the photosensitizer meso ‐tetra( N ‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)porphine and enhance anticancer photodynamic therapy. These nanocarriers release the photosensitizer from a hydrophobic core in response to elevated glutathione levels, enabling the generation of reactive oxygen species upon irradiation. The glutathione‐sensitive core is constructed using disulfide‐linked molecules, while the hydrophilic shell, consisting of a 6‐methyluracil derivative, enhances stability and promotes cellular uptake of the photosensitizer. The paper details the synthesis, physicochemical properties, and encapsulation efficiency of the nanocarriers. It further explores how the core structure influences glutathione‐induced degradation, photosensitizer release kinetics, and generation of reactive oxygen species under irradiation. Additionally, the study evaluates the hemocompatibility of the photosensitizer/nanocarrier composites and their cytotoxic effects on human liver cells (Chang Liver), healthy human embryonic lung cells (WI38), and cancer cell lines (M‐HeLa and HuTu80). Notably, treatment with these composites, followed by irradiation, significantly reduces the viability of the M‐HeLa cancer cell line, demonstrating their potential for targeted cancer therapy.