Design and evaluation of innovative nanohybrids: porphyrin-loaded PEG-GO/AgNp systems for PDT

Abstract

PEGylated graphene oxide (PEG-GO) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were utilized to create hybrid nano-composite structures. Porphyrin was selected based on its substitution pattern, which is suitable for photodynamic therapy (PDT). An electron-withdrawing-NO2 group and an electron-donating-NH2 group were chosen as substituents on porphyrin to compare their effects on singlet oxygen generation. PEG-GO-Ag hybrid nano-composite structures with porphyrin were produced using the electrospinning method. The incorporation of Zn metal enhanced the spin-orbit coupling between the metal ion d-orbitals and the porphyrin it-system, potentially increasing singlet oxygen generation. Eight sets of hybrid nanocomposites were obtained. The singlet oxygen quantum yield values increased in the order from NO2 complexes to NH2 complexes. PEG-GO-Ag-Zn-Tetra/NH2 exhibited a singlet oxygen generation value of 0.59, the highest observed, indicating it as the most promising photosensitizer for improved photodynamic efficiency.