Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT)
What is Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT)?
Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT) is an advanced, non-invasive cancer treatment that uses low-intensity ultrasound waves to activate specialized cancer-fighting agents known as sonosensitizers. Once activated, these agents generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that selectively destroy cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. SDT offers a targeted and less toxic alternative for patients, particularly those with inoperable tumors or resistance to conventional treatments.
Background
Conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can be very effective when a tumour is caught early, but may be limited by both toxicity side-effects and chemotherapy resistance for more advanced or inoperable tumours.
In addition, many solid tumors not only suppress the immune system but can mask themselves away from it, making it challenging for the body’s immune system to detect and fight cancer effectively.
SDT provides a natural, complementary treatment, that selectively targets cancer cells without systemic side effects. It is particularly useful for patients who cannot undergo surgery or have not responded to conventional treatments.
How Does Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT) Work?
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Administration of a Sonosensitizer
A sonosensitizing agent is given to the patient, and is a compound that selectively accumulates in cancer cells, and is highly absorbent of ultrasound waves. Recent studies have confirmed a chlorophyll (Plant-based) derivative fulfills these characteristics, and can be conveniently administered sublingually before the ultrasound treatment.
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Ultrasound Activation
The patient undergoes treatment in a specialized ultrasound bath, where low-intensity ultrasound waves target the tumor site.
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Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Generation
When exposed to ultrasound, the sonosensitizer activates, producing ROS. These highly reactive molecules damage cancer cell structures, leading to apoptosis (programmed cell death).
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Cavitation Effect
The ultrasound waves create microscopic bubbles within the tumor tissue, a process known as cavitation. These bubbles collapse rapidly, further enhancing the destruction of cancer cells.
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Immune System Modulation
SDT not only kills cancer cells but also helps alter the tumor microenvironment, potentially strengthening the body’s natural immune response against cancer.
Key Advantages of Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT)
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Non-Invasive & Painless
- SDT does not require surgery or radiation, making it an ideal option for patients who are not suitable for invasive procedures. The treatment is externally applied, reducing recovery time and minimizing complications.
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Deep Tumor Penetration
- Unlike photodynamic therapy (PDT), which relies on light that has limited tissue penetration, SDT uses ultrasound waves that can reach deeper tumors inside the body.
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Targeted Cancer Cell Destruction
- Sonosensitizers selectively accumulate in tumor cells, ensuring that the treatment primarily affects cancerous tissues while sparing healthy cells.
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Effective for Metastatic & Hard-to-Reach Tumors
- SDT can treats metastatic cancers, as ultrasound waves can penetrate throughout the body.
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Safe for Repeated Use
- Many conventional cancer treatments have usage limits due to cumulative toxicity. SDT, however, can be administered multiple times without increasing long-term toxicity risks.
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Compatible with Other Therapies
- SDT can be combined with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and supportive treatments to improve overall cancer management.
Safety and Applications
Research has explored SDT’s effectiveness in various cancers, including breast, pancreatic, lung, and glioblastoma. Clinical studies suggest that SDT, when combined with other therapies, can improve patient outcomes while reducing the toxic effects of traditional treatments.
For further enquiries:
If you would like to discover if you are suitable for Sonodynamic Therapy (SDT), please contact us on:
Whatsapp: +852 9456 3881
Phone: +852 2881 8131
Email: reception@lifeclinic.com.hk
References
- Wang, X., Zhang, W., Xu, Z., Luo, Y., Mitchell, D., et al. (2009). Sonodynamic and Photodynamic Therapy in Advanced Breast Carcinoma: A Report of Three Cases. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 8(3), 283-287. DOI: 1177/1534735409343364.
- Yumita, N., Umemura, S. (2004). Sonodynamic Anti-Tumor Effect of Chloroaluminum Phthalocyanine Tetrasulfonate on Murine Solid Tumor. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 56(1), 85-90. DOI: 1211/jpp.56.1.0001.
- Shibaguchi, H., Tsuru, H., Kuroki, M. (2011). Sonodynamic Cancer Therapy: A Non-Invasive and Repeatable Approach Using Low-Intensity Ultrasound with a Sonosensitizer. Anticancer Research, 31(7), 2425-2429.
- Kondo, T., Kano, E. (1988). Effect of Free Radicals Induced by Ultrasonic Cavitation on Cell Killing. International Journal of Radiation Biology, 54(3), 475-486. DOI: 1080/09553048814551651.
- Zhang, W. et al. (2017). Sonodynamic and Photodynamic Therapy in Breast Cancer – A Pilot Study. International Journal of Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 9(5), 00313. DOI: 15406/ijcam.2017.09.00313.
- Huang, D., Okada, K., Komori, C., et al. (2004). Ultrastructure of Sarcoma 180 Cells After Ultrasound Irradiation in the Presence of Sparfloxacin. Anticancer Research, 24(3A), 1553-1559.