Photodynamic therapy-induced anti-tumor immunity

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) could not only kill tumor cells directly, but also activate both local and systemic anti-tumor immune responses. The mechanism involved in PDT-induced anti-tumor immunity includes the release of antigens from tumor cells which might be mediated by heat shock proteins, as well as the enhancement of inflammatory reactions by various immune cells. The combination of PDT with immunoadjuvants and immunomodulatory therapy may improve treatment outcomes of tumors. PDT-based tumor vaccines are attracting more and more attention for its potential to inhibit the growth of primary and metastatic tumors. Key words: Photochemotherapy; Neoplasms; Immunity; Vaccines