Work

Synergistic cytotoxicity of Hypericin photodynamic therapy and a Scorpion-Venom Peptide derivative in MCF-7A breast cancer cells

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Significance This work presents the results of a synergistic application of photodynamic therapy (PDT), with hypericin as photosensitizer, and a scorpion-venom peptide synthetic analog in human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7A) and triplet-negative breast cancer models (MDA MB-231 e 4T1). Approach To enhance efficacy while minimizing toxicity, the peptides were evaluated in combination with PDT by two treatment protocols: PDT followed by peptide application, and peptide application followed by PDT. Results Results indicated a synergistic effect when PDT was applied before peptide treatment, using very reduced concentrations of hypericin (0, 05 µM) and AKFK-IsCT1 (0, 13 µM). Conclusions The study highlights that the combination peptides with PDT offers a synergistic approach, allowing for reduced peptide and photosensitizer concentrations, minimizing toxicity to healthy cells.

Source: Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2025.105055

Authors: Cyntia Silva de Oliveira, Gislaine Patricia de Andrade, Giselle Cerchiaro, Vani Xavier de Oliveira, Anderson Orzari Ribeiro

Institutions: Instituto Butantan, Universidade Federal do ABC, Universidade Federal de São Paulo

Language: English

Topic: Photodynamic Therapy Research Studies

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,610