New methods for delivery of therapeutic agents to specific cancer cells include use of photo-active compounds for photodynamic therapy (PDT) and nanoscopic particles (nanoclinics) for drug delivery.

PDT utilizes light sensitive agents (systemic photosensitive dye, quantumdots (QDs), nanoscale spheres), which collect in diseased cells such as a tumour. The local region is illuminated with a high intensity laser or high intensity diode lamp activating a toxin or generating local heating that kills the surrounding tissue. Promising results have been observed in the treatment of cancer as well as cardiovascular, dermatological and ophthalmic disease. Combined with PDT nanoparticles with an externally applied magnetic field may allow a more precise targeting of drug delivery.

Traditional therapies are benefiting from photonic research as well. Laser angioplasty combines a laser source with a fiber catheter to destroy plaque deposits with focused optical radiation. Thus reducing the invasive nature of the procedure and reducing surgery and healing time.

In 2000, the FDA approved Vasudyne (Novartis Pharmaceuticals), a photo-activated dye that seals off abnormal, fragile, leaky blood vessels that grow in to the macular area threatening to burst and bleed, causing a condition known as Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Vasudyne therapy is designed to prevent further vision loss and has shown measurable results in targeted patients.

Destiny Pharma Innovative Solutions has developed and patented a line of photo-activated antibiotics that bacteria are unable to develop resistance to, even after repeated dosing. Unlike conventional antibiotics that bind to specific receptors on the bacteria cell wall the XF-drugs bind electrostatically. This negates the necessity for specific receptors therefore the XF-drugs remain just as effective on mutated bacteria. The XF-drugs have further been shown to be effective against multi-drug resistant bacteria (MDRB) and not against human cells. The next generation will be effective against systemic bacterial infections.

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