Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology 1996-07-01

Purpurins and benzochlorins as sensitizers for photodynamic therapy.

G M Garbo

Index: J. Photochem. Photobiol. B, Biol. 34(2-3) , 109-16, (1996)

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Abstract

Purpurins and benzochlorins are hydrophobic second generation photosensitizers, which have sizable absorption in the 650-780 nm range and exhibit photodynamic activity against tumors after visible light treatment. This review summarizes the published data regarding these compounds: from the spectroscopic, photophysical and photochemical characteristics to the in vivo and in vitro photodynamic inactivation of tumors and normal tissue effects. Some mechanistic studies using both the Sn-etiopurpurin and/or the Cu-benzochlorin derivatives are also reviewed.