Targeted in vitro photodynamic therapy via aptamer-labeled, porphyrin-loaded virus capsids

► MS2 bacteriophages are used as nanoscale delivery vessels for photodynamic therapy agents. ► Cationic porphyrins are loaded inside the capsid via nucleotide-driven packaging. ► G-rich oligonucleotide aptamers are conjugated to capsid exterior to instill cell-selectivity. ► Porphyrin-loaded MS2 decorated with aptamers exhibit cell-specific PDT capability in vitro.