Methemoglobin-Albumin Cluster Incorporating Protoporphyrin IX: Dual Functional Protein Drug for Photodynamic Therapy
Graphical Abstract
A core-shell protein cluster comprising a methemoglobin (metHb) at the center and human serum albumin containing protoporphyrin IX (HSA-PPIX) at the periphery was synthesized as a unique photosensitizer with O2-generation property. The metHb-HSA3-PPIX2 is protein drug showing dual task for photodynamic therapy.
Abstract
We describe the synthesis, photophysical properties, and photodynamic activity of a methemoglobin (metHb) wrapped covalently by human serum albumins (HSAs) incorporating protoporphyrin IX (PPIX): a metHb-HSA3-PPIX2 cluster. The metHb core catalyzes H2O2 disproportionation to generate O2 in tumor tissue. The HSA3-PPIX2 shell acts as a photosensitizer for 1O2 formation. The metHb-HSA3-PPIX2 cluster acts as a dual functional protein drug for photodynamic therapy.