Unleashing the power of porphyrin photosensitizers: Illuminating breakthroughs in photodynamic therapy

This comprehensive review provides the current trends and recent developments of porphyrin-based photosensitizers. We discuss their evolution from first-generation to third-generation compounds, including cutting-edge nanoparticle-integrated derivatives, and explores their pivotal role in advancing photodynamic therapy (PDT) for enhanced cancer treatment. Integrating porphyrins with nanoparticles represents a promising avenue, offering improved selectivity, reduced toxicity, and heightened biocompatibility. By elucidating recent breakthroughs, innovative methodologies, and emerging applications, this review provides a panoramic snapshot of the dynamic field, addressing challenges and charting prospects. With a focus on harnessing reactive oxygen species (ROS) through light activation, PDT serves as a minimally invasive therapeutic approach. This article offers a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and PDT enthusiasts, highlighting the potential of porphyrin photosensitizers to improve the future of cancer therapy.