Phthalocyanines as contrast agents for photothermal therapy

Phthalocyanine, as a type of organic photothermal agent, has advantages including a definite chemical structure, repeatable synthesis, strong absorption in the near-infrared region, tunable photophysical and photochemical properties, and inherent biodegradability. This review focuses on the recent progress made in the application of phthalocyanines as contrast agents for photothermal therapy (PTT). The present review not only discusses the molecular and/or supramolecular design considerations for enhancing the PTT effect of phthalocyanines, but also provides the perspectives and challenges of the use of phthalocyanines as contrast agents for PTT.