Penetration of Singlet Oxygen into Films with Oxygen Permeability Coefficient Close to that of Skin

Although its antiviral and antibacterial functions help prevent infection, singlet oxygen (O-1(2))-which is generated by the action of light on an endogenous photosensitizer-is cytotoxic. In the present study, we investigated the ability of O-1(2)-generated by the action of visible light on a photosensitizer-to penetrate skin. We used two polymer films with oxygen permeability coefficients similar to that of skin-i.e. cellulose acetate (CA) and ethyl cellulose (EC). Both films contained 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF), which was used as an O-1(2) probe. O-1(2) generated externally did not permeate the films by mere contact. Therefore, we conclude that the potential for O-1(2) to penetrate the skin is very low, and films that generate O-1(2) are safe and useful for preventing infections by contact. We also proved that O-1(2) can move between the layers of integrated polymer films when they are joined together.

Automated summary

The study found that the ability of singlet oxygen (O-1(2)) generated by a photosensitizer to penetrate the skin is very low, making it useful for infection prevention. Additionally, it was demonstrated that O-1(2) can move between layers of integrated polymer films when they are joined together.