1. Synthesis and characterization of photosensitizers to be used in photodynamic therapy

2. Contacts Department of Chemistry, Phisics and Environment, University of Udine Dr. Clara Comuzzi, Via del Cotonificio 108 33100 Udine Email: clara.comuzzi@uniud.it, Tel: +39 0432 55 8823/8874; Fax: +39 0432 558803

3. The team Dr. Clara Comuzzi Photosesitizers synthesis and PDT/PACT therapy expert. Dr. Silvia Cavalli Nanomaterial synhesis and engineering expert. Dr. Sabina Susmel Electrochemical sensors/biosensors development expert. Ing. Dr. Daniele Goi Environmental sanitary engineering expert. Dr. Giada Rossi Water sanitary treatment expert.

4. Photodynamic therapy: mechanisms of action

5. Photosensitzer (active principle) Fe 2 O 3 Tumoral cells, Gram+ and Gram- bacteria, S. Aureus methicillin- resistant (MRSA) Applications

6. Biocidal global market Turnover 2008 : 7 bilion dollars (Source: BCC research) Annual growth rate : 10% Leading sector: treatment of antibiotic-resistant bacteria infections Market profile

7. The pain Emerging infections caused by antibiotic resistant bacterial strains. An example has been the “Shiga toxin-producing E. coli” recently isolated in Germany. Sanitization demand of surfaces, water, food,...

8. The product Active principle, based on a “switch on/off” mechanism due to light radiation. Patent applied for but not yet granted: PCT/IB2011/053992.

9. Competition factors Innovative disinfection technique: It doesn't induce resistance. The photosensitizer is dispersed in water without its solubilization. Side effects are decreased thanks to the on/off mechanisms of the active principle. There is no corrosion damage on metal surfaces.