AXCAN Pharma(AXCA)..A GUT FEELING! Message Board

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Biotech / Medical : AXCAN Pharma(AXCA)..A GUT FEELING!

Public Reply Prvt Reply Mark as Last Read File

Next 10PreviousNext

To: Arthur Radley who started this subject	8/13/2000 3:53:05 PM
From: Arthur Radley	Read Replies (1) of 46

This is how PROTOFRIN works in the treatment of cancer cells..How photodynamic therapy (PDT) works: A photosensitizer is injected into the bloodstream, attaching to lipoproteins Lipoproteins carry the photosensitizer to target cells Photosensitizer is activated by light, resulting in disruption of biochemical processes in target cells Target cells are destroyed leaving surrounding cells intact what is photodynamic therapy PDT uses light-activated drugs called photosensitizers to treat a range of diseases characterized by rapidly growing tissue, including the formation of abnormal blood vessels associated with cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). a two-step process Treatment with PDT consists of a two-step process that starts with administration of the drug, or photosensitizer, by intravenous injection. Once the drug enters the bloodstream, it attaches itself to low-density lipoproteins already circulating. As cells undergoing rapid growth require an above-average supply of lipoproteins, the drug reaches these types of cells more quickly and in higher concentrations. Once the necessary level of concentration is attained, the second step is to activate the drug with a specific dose of light of a particular wavelength. This causes the conversion of normal oxygen found in tissue to a highly energized form called singlet oxygen, which in turn, disrupts normal cellular functions. Neither the drug nor the light exert any effect until combined. selectivity What makes PDT effective and safe is its selectivity. Because the light is shone directly at the cells in the targeted tissue where the drug accumulates preferentially, damage to the surrounding tissue is limited. The entire procedure can be performed in a physician’s office or on an outpatient basis. light sources The type of light source used in PDT varies according to the condition treated. CANCER/INTERNAL DISEASES: fiber optics are used to deliver light to the internal cavities like the lung and esophagus while LED's (light-emitting diodes) are used for skin cancer. In all cases only non-thermal (i.e. non-burning) light sources are used. QLT ensures the availability of light sources and delivery systems by partnering with leading medical device companies to co-develop and promote PDT-dedicated lights and related devices.

Report TOU Violation

Share This Post

Public Reply Prvt Reply Mark as Last Read File

Next 10PreviousNext