Therapeutic applications of near-infrared dyes

The interaction of dyes with cells and tissue is well understood, and the use of light-activated compounds in therapy is becoming more established. However, the application of near-infrared light in these areas, particularly from a therapeutic angle, has received little attention. With greatly improved access to near-infrared light sources, there is considerable potential for therapeutic advances due to the increased tissue penetration offered by wavelengths in the 700-1000 nm region, particularly regarding blood vessel disorders and larger or deeper-seated tumours. The design and development of suitably absorbing dyes to take advantage of near-infraread illumination is discussed for the major structural types.