Abstract
Hypocrellin-based photodynamic therapy (PDT) is developing as a viable cancer therapeutic option, especially when
enhanced by nanoconjugation. This review investigates the methods by which nano-conjugated hypocrellin enhances therapeutic
efficacy and precision when targeting cancer cells. These nanoconjugates encapsulate or covalently bind hypocrellin photosensitizers
(PSs), allowing them to accumulate preferentially in malignancies. When activated by light, the nanoconjugates produce singlet
oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in oxidative stress that selectively destroys cancer cells while protecting
healthy tissues. We look at how they can be used to treat a variety of cancers. Clinical and preclinical studies show that they have
advantages such as increased water solubility, improved tumor penetration, longer circulation times, and tailored delivery, all of which
contribute to fewer off-target effects and overall toxicity. Ongoing research focuses on improving these nanoconjugates for better
tumor targeting, drug release kinetics, and overcoming biological obstacles. Furthermore, the incorporation of developing technologies
such as stimuli-responsive nanocarriers and combination therapies opens exciting opportunities for enhancing hypocrellin-based PDT.
In conclusion, the combination of hypocrellin and nanotechnology constitutes a significant approach to cancer treatment, increasing the
efficacy and safety of PDT. Future research will seek to create conjugates including hypocrellin, herceptin, and gold nanoparticles to
induce apoptosis in human breast cancer cells in vitro, opening possibilities for therapeutic applications.
Keywords: hypocrellin, cancer, photodynamic therapy, photosensitizer, nanoparticles