Integration of Self-Luminescence and Oxygen Self-Supply: A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Strategy for Deep Tumor Treatment.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), as an emerging clinical approach, has been exploited for the treatment of various diseases including cancer for several years. Excitation light and molecular oxygen are the key parameters that restrict the efficacy of PDT due to the restricted penetration depth of light and the hypoxic microenvironment of tumors, which will lead to ineffective therapeutic response. In recent years, a number of studies were focused on tackling these challenges and showed great potential in improving the efficacy of PDT to some degree. Herein, we summarize the advancements in newly developed PDT strategies based on diverse nanocomposites, especially in the aspects of the types of light source and the ways to supply oxygen. Finally, new challenges and possible opportunities for further research are also discussed.