Effects of Photodynamic Therapy with Redaporfin on Tumor Oxygenation and Blood Flow in a Lung Cancer Mouse Model

Three photodynamic therapy (PDT) protocols with 15 min, 3 h and 72 h drug-to-light time intervals (DLIs) were performed using a bacteriochlorin named redaporfin, as a photosensitizer. Blood flow and pO 2 changes after applying these protocols were investigated in a Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) mouse model and correlated with long-term tumor responses. In addition, cellular uptake, cytotoxicity and photocytotoxicity of redaporfin in LLC cells were evaluated. Our in vitro tests revealed negligible cytotoxicity, significant cellular uptake, generation of singlet oxygen, superoxide ion and hydroxyl radicals in the cells and changes in the mechanism of cell death as a function of the light dose. Results of in vivo studies showed that treatment focused on vascular destruction (V-PDT) leads to a highly effective long-term antineoplastic response mediated by a strong deprivation of blood supply. Tumors in 67% of the LLC bearing mice treated with V-PDT regressed completely and did not reappear for over 1 year. This significant efficacy can be attributed to photosensitizer (PS) properties as well as distribution and accurate control of oxygen level and density of vessels before and after PDT. V-PDT has a greater potential for success than treatment based on longer DLIs as usually applied in clinical practice.