International Edition
Latest News
Health

How Did Photodynamic Therapy Work? A Complete Guide

The Mexican scientist from the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), Eva Ramón Gallegos, announced that she managed to eliminate the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) during tests in pilot studies using an innovative photodynamic therapy.In a paradigm where the Human Papillomavirus…

How Did Photodynamic Therapy Work? A Complete Guide

The Mexican scientist from the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), Eva Ramón Gallegos, announced that she managed to eliminate the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) during tests in pilot studies using an innovative photodynamic therapy.

In a paradigm where the Human Papillomavirus has affected millions of people around the world and is one of the main causes of cervical cancer cases, this new discovery could save the lives of women.

Mexican scientist manages to combat the Human Papillomavirus: This is how she made it possible

The Mexican researcher has opened a promising avenue for the treatment of the Human Papillomavirus, this is due to the fact that she managed to develop a laser therapy that completely eliminates the Virus. Eva Ramón Gallegos, researcher at the National Polytechnic Institute, achieved this thanks to an innovative photodynamic therapy

Mexican scientist Eva Ramón Gallegos, from the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), has managed to eliminate the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in pilot studies through an innovative photodynamic therapy.

Virus / Photo: Canva

What is photodynamic therapy?

Photodynamic therapy combines a photosensitive chemical agent and a laser light source. The process involves applying delta-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to the cervix, which selectively accumulates in cells infected by HPV or with premalignant lesions. The area is then exposed to laser light, which activates the compound and generates reactive oxygen species that destroy only the damaged cells.

Lee | INFOGRAPHIC | Childhood cancer. 15 warning signs

Results of pilot studies

  • – 100% HPV eradication in patients without premalignant lesions
  • – 64.3% success in women with HPV and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade I (CIN I)
  • – Regression of lesions in up to 83% of cases after 12-month follow-up

Photodynamic therapy is non-invasive, outpatient and does not cause serious side effects, making it a promising alternative for the treatment of HPV.

Mexican scientist dedicated to national health

It is worth mentioning that Eva Ramón Gallegos is a graduate of the National School of Biological Sciences (ENCB) of the IPN, which has more than 20 years of experience in nanobiotechnology applied to health.

Likewise, her specialty and research have been dedicated for years to therapies against viral diseases associated with cancer, particularly those that affect women in vulnerable contexts.

Lee | Male cancer, the still invisible threat

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer, also known as cervical cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the cervix (cervix). It occurs when the cells of the cervix begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, forming a tumor.

Causes and risk factors

  • – Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
  • – Smoke
  • – Weakened immune system
  • – Family history
  • – Early age of initiation of sexual activity
  • – Multiple sexual partners

Symptoms:

  • – Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • – Pelvic pain
  • – Pain during sex
  • – Abnormal vaginal discharge

Prevention and treatment

  • – HPV vaccination
  • – Regular Pap smears
  • – Treatment of precancerous lesions
  • – Surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for invasive cancer

Lee | Is cancer contagious? Doctor acquires the same aggressive tumor

It is important to have regular exams and follow prevention recommendations to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer.

AM3

date: 2026-02-12 21:33:00

About the author: Dr Natalie Singh - Health Editor

Board‑certified internal‑medicine physician and MPH. Natalie authored peer‑reviewed studies on infectious disease and served as medical editor. “Dr. Natalie Singh delivers evidence‑based health news, medical breakthroughs, and expert wellness guidance.”