PEGYLATED LIPOSOMAL FORMULATIONS FOR PHOTODYNAMIC TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATORY DISEASES

摘要

A PDT treatment system designed to treat all types of human inflammatory disorders. A suitable drug delivery system is developed to target proliferating cells, at inflamed sites, populated with macrophages and other inflammatory mediators. The hydrophobic photosensitizer is loaded into the liposomal bilayer formed of synthetic phospholipids; at least one of the synthetic phospholipids is conjugated to polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules, to prevent accumulation in the liver and spleen. Further, (PEG) formulated photosensitizer increases the circulatory half-life of the drug, enhances solubility, and modifies pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. The formulation, thus, leads to a higher amount of delivered drug to the diseased target synovial tissue, increasing clinical effectiveness. In one embodiment, pegylated liposomes loaded with mTHPC are administered to diseased synovial joints, followed by light irradiation. Activated photosensitizer induces cytotoxic effect in the diseased synovial cells, thus preventing further inflammation and joint erosion and minimizing joint damage.