Comparing the photodynamic treatment of OSCC between natural and artificial photosensitizers

Purpose: Since Verteporfin is the generally accepted photosensitizer for OSCC and other forms of skin cancer. Its synthetic structure and broad range in absorption has made it harmful to both tumor and healthy cells and tissues. The study aims to see whether a natural and herbal extract like Chlorophyllin, used in primarily bladder cancer, can become an alternative to Verteporfin. Methods: This study uses HSC-2 cell lines and mice models. The cancer cells in vitro and in vivo will be treated with increasing amounts and various durations of Chlorophyllin and Verteporfin. Killing in vitro is measured by MTT assay and in vivo is measured by xenograft tumor size. Positive control is Verteporfin, and negative control is DMSO in vitro or saline solution for the xenograft experiment. Possible results: The three main possible results: (1) Chlorophyllin kills more cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and it has less killed normal tissue. (5) Verteporfin kills more cancer cells but also has more damage to normal tissues when compared to Chlorophyllin. (8) Verteporfin kills more cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and it has less killed normal tissue. Conclusion: The results of the study will determine if natural alternatives are worth investing research into as they can be low-cost extraction, low toxicity, and high selectivity of cells to kill. Chlorophyllin can pave the way to more intensive research of natural photosensitizers in different types of cancers.