<title>In vivo uptake and photodynamic activity of porphycenes</title>

Abstract

Novel porphyrinoid photosensitizers are currently being considered for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT) of cancer. This class of sensitizers combines high absorption characteristics at the therapeutic wavelengths ((lambda) > 600 nm) and good tumor targeting properties. We have investigated the in-vivo uptake and photodynamic damage of several porphycenes. Our model system was the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) which we have adapted for use in PDT studies. The CAM assay allows fast screening of novel drugs and obtaining statistically relevant results with minute quantities of the drug. Sensitizers were `trapped' in EPC (egg phosphatidylcholine) or in DPPC (dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine); their efficiencies were independent of the vehicle used for application of the sensitizer. The efficiencies of various porphycenes in PDT, as a function of drug and light dose, compare well with those of standard porphyrins and phthalocyanines.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.