Tetrahydroporphyrin-tetratosylat (THPTS): A near-infrared photosensitizer for targeted and efficient photodynamic therapy (PDT) of human bladder carcinoma. An in vitro study

THPTS-PDT induces cellular mechanisms leading to cellular growth arrest, apoptosis and necrosis in human bladder cancer cells. These effects are only partly dependent on the total amount of THPTS uptake and rather dependent on its subcellular compartmentalization. HBSMC are hardly affected by THPTS-PDT confirming tumor specificity and safety. THPTS is a promising new photosensitizer with the unique advantage of deep tissue penetration allowing the treatment of solid tumors and warranting further animal studies.