Using a stable radical as an “electron donor” to develop a radical photosensitizer for efficient type-I photodynamic therapy

Abstract

Among type I photosensitizers, stable organic radicals are superior candidate molecules for hypoxia-overcoming photodynamic therapy. However, their wide applications are limited by complicated preparation processes and poor stabilities. Herein, a nitroxide radical was simply synthesized by introducing a commercially available “TEMPO” moiety. The radical exhibits efficient type-I ROS generation and appreciable photo-cytotoxicity under hypoxia, which open up a new avenue for the exploration of a novel and efficient type-I photosensitizer.