Mitochondria‐Targeting Phthalocyanines and Porphyrins for Enhanced Photodynamic Tumor Therapy

Abstract Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising non‐invasive treatment modality for tumors. However, the lack of attack targets in tumor cells greatly affects the antitumor efficiency of PDT. Mitochondria, as one of the most pivotal subcellular organelles, generated most of the energy for tumor cells and play an important role in tumor cell proliferation. PDT targeting mitochondria provides a practicable scheme for accurate and efficient antitumor treatment. Hence, the strategies of mitochondria‐based PDT using phthalocyanines or porphyrins as photosensitizers was summarized, including covalent modification of photosensitizers, delivery of drug carriers and cellular respiration in mitochondria. This review will provide guidance in the development of precision medicine for cancer treatment.