NanoXRay Composite Particles for Deep Tissue Photodynamic Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment has limitations such as light sensitivity issues, restricted depth penetration due to low wavelength requirements, and toxicity concerns, which restrict its application to superficial cancers and require oxygen loading in tissues.
Innovation Solution
Development of novel composite particles, named NanoXRay, that can generate free radicals or heat when excited by X-rays or UV rays, comprising a nucleus with an inorganic compound absorbing X-rays and emitting UV-visible energy, and another compound producing free radicals upon contact with water or oxygen, optionally coated for biocompatibility and targeting capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If photodynamic therapy uses low wavelength rays to excite photosensitive molecules, then toxicity towards healthy tissues is reduced, but the treatment is restricted to superficial cancers only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces X-ray photons as an intermediary carrier that penetrates deep into tissues without causing significant damage. The X-rays serve as a mediator that transports energy to the target deep-seated tumors while the actual therapeutic effect is generated locally by the photosensitive molecules through photochemical reactions, separating the penetration function from the therapeutic action function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the excitation source from UV/visible light (300-600 nm) to X-rays (0.01-10 nm). This parameter change enables deep tissue penetration while maintaining the photosensitive molecule's ability to generate cytotoxic effects, thus resolving the contradiction between penetration depth and selective toxicity.
2Productivity
If photodynamic therapy is administered multiple times to treat cancer, then treatment efficacy increases, but patients develop light sensitivity that restricts further administrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the excitation wavelength from UV/visible light to X-rays. Since X-rays do not cause the same type of light sensitivity (photophobia) as UV/visible light, patients can undergo multiple treatments without developing restrictive light sensitivity, thereby enabling repeated administrations to improve treatment efficacy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If photosensitive molecules are used to treat deep-seated cancers, then treatment indication expands, but oxygen loading of tissues becomes necessary and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs photosensitive molecules that can generate free radicals through photochemical reactions with water or dissolved oxygen. The system utilizes the naturally abundant water in tissues as a reactant, eliminating the need for complex external oxygen loading procedures. The photosensitive molecules essentially serve themselves by using the body's own water content to generate the cytotoxic effects needed for cancer treatment.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional photodynamic therapy is used for superficial cancers, then treatment is simple and effective, but it cannot treat deep-seated cancers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces X-rays as an intermediary that enables deep tissue penetration. The X-rays act as a mediator that carries energy through deep tissues to reach the target, while the photosensitive molecules convert this energy into localized therapeutic effects. This intermediary approach maintains treatment simplicity while extending depth capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables targeted therapeutic or diagnostic responses in deep tissues, allowing for the treatment or imaging of any tissue type, including deep-seated cancers, with reduced toxicity and increased treatment flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a nucleus comprising a first inorganic compound absorbing X rays and emitting UV-visible energy
Implementation Method 2
a second compound, inorganic or organic, absorbing UV-visible energy and producing free radicals on contact with water or oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to novel activatable particles which can be used in the health sector. The invention more particularly relates to composite particles which can generate free radicals or heat when excited by X rays, and to the uses thereof in health, particularly human. The inventive particles comprise an inorganic-based, and optionally organic-based, nucleus and can be activated in vivo, in order to label or alter cells, tissues or organs. The invention also relates to methods for the production of said particles, and to pharmaceutical or diagnostic compositions containing same.