Intramolecular π-π Stacking-Regulated ROS Amplification in Water-Soluble GalNAc-Functionalized Tetraphenylethylene Photosensitizers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Key Points

• The aim is to explore a new photosensitizer platform that targets hepatocellular carcinoma through ROS amplification.
• Developed modular gem-TPE photosensitizers with GalNAc targeting units.
• Investigated the impact of intramolecular π-π stacking on photophysical properties.
• Assessed the efficacy of photosensitizers in cancer cell models.
• Demonstrated effective targeting of hepatocellular carcinoma cells via GalNAc units.
• Indicated enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation due to optimized intramolecular stacking.
• Observed improved phototoxicity against cancer cells compared to non-targeted controls.