Novel applications of diagnostic X-rays in activating a clinical photodynamic drug: Photofrin II through X-ray induced visible luminescence from "rare-earth" formulated particles

Abstract

Severe suppression (> 90% relative to controls) in the cellular metabolic activity of human glioblastoma was measured due to the treatment of clinically relevant concentrations of 20 μg/ml Photo II, with Gd<formula>_{2}</formula>O<formula>_{2}</formula>S:Tb particles, and (120 kVp) diagnostic X-rays. Taken together, the in-vitro findings herein provide the basis for future studies in determining the safety and efficacy of this non-invasive X-ray induced luminescence strategy in activating photo-agent in deep seated tumors.