Seoul � A group of South Korean researchers developed a new photodynamic therapy (PDT) method to target tumor cells, opening up new treatment opportunities for patients, Yonhap reported on Sunday quoting the Ministry of Science.

PDT � a method of exposing a drug called a photosensitizer to a specific wavelength of light � has been widely studied as a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy for the treatment of cancer. However, the poor solubility of the photosensitizer and inefficient cell-penetration rate have often resulted in side effects such as serious damage to skin tissue.

The team, led by Min Dal-hee of Seoul National University, developed the novel photodynamic therapeutic system of using a two-dimensional "nanosheet" as a new carrier of the photosensitizer, the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning said.

"This research was focused on developing a two-dimensional nanosheet that only targets cancer tumors by minimizing the damage to other cells," Min said, adding: The treatment is forecast to be used for lung and cervical cancers that are difficult to treat.

Source: International Islamic News Agency