Some synergetic therapy strategies for overcoming hypoxia for photodynamic therapy of cancer

As an emerging strategy in antitumor therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has garnered significant attention in recent years for the treatment of various malignant tumors. This is due to its low side effects, superior spatial selectivity, and maximum preservation of normal tissue function. However, the hypoxic nature of tumors, continuous oxygen consumption, and microvascular damage associated with PDT treatment have impeded its development. Therefore, the focus of antitumor therapy has shifted towards enhancing the efficacy of PDT by addressing tumor hypoxia. The objective of this review is to assess and summarize the recent advancements in tumor treatment using synergistic therapy strategies (PDT+X, where X represents photothermal therapy, chemodynamic therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, Photoacoustic therapy, etc.) that overcome hypoxia. Additionally, this review aims to outline the advantages and disadvantages of various collaborative methods for improving tumor hypoxia, while also discussing the challenges that lie ahead for future research.