Porphyrins as photosensitizers

The porphyrins have two important roles in photobiology: in photosynthesis, which has evolved and is highly organized morphologically; and in the photodynamic effect, which is adventitious. The damage to tissue that results from photodynamic action is regarded as arising from a number of pathways, but singlet oxygen generation is a major route. Even for the latter mechanism, a number of target molecules are possible. Compared with photosynthesis, it is a very disorganized process. Since the mid 1970s there have been increasing efforts to turn the photodynamic effect to good use as the basis of a phototherapy for cancer. The field has been dominated by the photosensitizer haematoporphyrin derivative. This is a complex mixture of molecules, and although we are learning more about it, it seems unlikely that it will be possible to separate out a useful single substance. A second generation of porphyrin sensitizers is emerging, which, unlike haematoporphyrin derivative, is designed for the job in hand. Some of these photosensitizers, especially the hydroporphyrins, look quite promising.

Immobilization of zinc phthalocyanines in silicate matrices and investigation of their photobactericidal effect on E. coli

The aim of the present investigation was to immobilize zinc phthalocyanines in a silicate matrix and to test the photobactericidal properties of the matrices so prepared toward Esherichia coli in model aqueous media. For the purpose, tetra tertiary butyl zinc phthalocyanine (TBZnPc) and zinc phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid (ZnPcTS) were used. The abilities of these two photosensitizers to generate singlet oxygen in solution were compared by following the rate of photobleaching of 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran (DPBF) at 430 nm in dimethylformamide (DMF). The results of this study show clearly that, under the conditions used here, the TBZnPc is the more effective generator of singlet oxygen; with it the DPBF was virtually completely photobleached in 4 min, while with the ZnPcTS under the same conditions, it took 12 min to reach this point. Glass conjugates with the two phthalocyanines were obtained by the sol-gel technique and were characterized by a well-defined color due to the phthalocyanine incorporated in the silicate matrix. Glasses with an intense, but inhomogeneous, green color were obtained when the tetrasulfonic derivative of the zinc phthalocyanine was used, while blue glasses of evenly distributed coloration were formed from the tetra tertiary butyl derivative. The ZnPcTS conjugate demonstrates more effective singlet oxygen evolution than is the case with the TBZnPc conjugate. These results are the opposite of those obtained for the free phthalocyanines in solution. The structural formulae of the compounds show that TBZnPc has a more pronounced hydrophobic character than the sulfonic derivative. In our view, the relative reactivities of the conjugates can be explained by the tetrasulfonic derivative being situated mainly in the surface parts of the glass matrix where the hydrophilic character is prevailing, while the tertiary butyl derivative is mainly present in the internal parts of the matrix as a result of which it is less accessible and therefore less active. The results obtained on the effect of zinc phthalocyanine conjugates on E. coli show a trend similar to that observed with singlet oxygen evolution shown. Thus, for the ZnPcTS conjugate, the log kill is 1.32 and for the TBZnPc conjugate, it is 0.98, in each case after 120 min. The results obtained show that phthalocyanines can be immobilized successfully in a silicate matrix and used for photodisinfection of microbially polluted waters. The silicate matrix has some advantages in comparison with other organic matrices. It is insoluble in water, resistant towards microorganisms, easy to fabricate, and might be developed successfully for the photodisinfection of water, e.g., in swimming pools and in other open water reservoirs.

Water disinfection using photosensitizers immobilized on chitosan

We have designed experiments to test the idea that the photodynamic effect can be used to lower microbial levels in a flow of water using a sensitizer incorporated into a polymeric membrane. We have selected a naturally derived, wettable polymer, chitosan, which can be reinforced with nylon. Photosensitizers of singlet oxygen formation were incorporated into translucent chitosan membranes by adsorption [5,10,15,20-tetrakis(p-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin, p-THPP], by dissolution and casting [5,10,15,20-tetrakis(p-aminophenyl)porphyrin, p-TAPP], and by covalent attachment by reactive dyeing [zinc(II) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid, ZnPcS]. Preliminary evaluation of photomicrobicidal activity in static systems against Escherichia coli revealed some activity in each case, and showed that the phthalocyanine/chitosan membrane was the most effective. A novel photodisinfection reactor was designed and constructed as a model for a large-scale water-flow system. Using the novel reinforced ZnPcS/chitosan membrane as the photosensitizing surface, a significant photokill of E. coli was observed, thus providing proof of concept.

11-Methyl-2,3-benzodipyrrin-1-one

The title compound {alternative names: 11-methyl-2,3-benzopyrromethenone and 3-[(1-methylpyrrol-2-yl)methylidene]-2,3-dihydro-1H-isoindol-1-one}, C(14)H(12)N(2)O, was prepared by the base-catalysed condensation of phthalimidine with 2-formyl-1-methylpyrrole; yellow orthorhombic crystals, space group Pbca, were obtained from ethanol. The molecule is almost planar, having Z(-)antiperiplanar geometry. The molecules are arranged in pairs with intermolecular hydrogen bonding between lactam functions. Comparison with literature values for polyalkyldipyrrin-1-ones shows that, apart from the local constraints of the benzene ring, the fused benzo ring has little effect on the molecular dimensions of the dipyrrin-1-one skeleton.

Determination of vascular-endothelial growth factor levels in serum from tumor-bearing BALB/c mice treated with photodynamic therapy

MATERIAL/METHODS

We implanted a malignant tumour, BFS1 fibrosarcoma, into BALB/c mice and then treated them using a new photosensitizer, hydroxygallium (III) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid tetrasodium salt, BON-6. The administration of this compound was followed by light irradiation using a halogen lamp at 680 nm. VEGF concentrations were measured in sera from the mice and compared to the time of tumor growth.

RESULTS

BON-6 was found to be effective in PDT. This feature was accompanied by low levels of VEGF after BON-6+PDT, and also prolongation of the time of survival of treated animals. The mice which received BON-6+PDT survived 83.8 days (SD 10.23). The mean survival time in control groups did not exceed 35 days. Additionally, measurement of tumor size showed total regression in single cases after BON-6+PDT.

CONCLUSIONS

PDT, by decreasing VEGF serum levels, may influence the capability of tumor tissue to form new vessels.

Photophysical behaviour of an opp-dibenzoporphyrin (2, 12-diethyl-3,13-dimethyldibenzo[g,q]porphyrin) in micelles and organic solvents

Photophysical parameters relevant to photodynamic therapy have been studied for a novel lipophilic opp-dibenzoporphyrin (DBP), 2,12-diethyl-3,13-dimethyldibenzo[g,q]porphyrin, in N,N-dimethylformamide and TX-100 micelles. The structure of DBP is intermediate between a porphyrin and a phthalocyanine and is associated with higher molar extinction coefficients in the red Q-bands than those found in the haematoporphyrin derivative currently used for photodynamic therapy. The ultrafast measurements on DBP in DMF revealed a fast (ps) lifetime for the second excited singlet state. Observed lifetimes of the first excited singlet state were found to be similar in DMF and TX-100 (12.2 and 14.7 ns), but excited triplet lifetimes were different in the two solvents (0.46 and 2.86 micros). The fluorescent quantum yields of DBP in DMF and TX-100 were twice that of free-base tetraphenylporphyrin and the singlet oxygen quantum yield in DMF and TX-100 was high (0.56-0.65). The combination of stable chemical structure, stronger red-absorption, high singlet oxygen quantum yields, and high fluorescent quantum yields suggests that DBP is an potential chromophore for applications in photodynamic therapy.

Determination of basic fibroblast growth factor levels in serum of tumor-bearing BALB/c mice treated with photodynamic therapy

In the present study we have checked whether photodynamic therapy (PDT) may influence concentration of basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (bFGF) in in vivo conditions. We have implanted malignant tumor, i.e. BFS1 fibrosarcoma into BALB/c mice and have them treated using well established photosensitizer, hematoporphyrin derivative and new compound, hydroxygallium (III) phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid tetrasodium salt, BON-6. The administration of those compounds was followed by light irradiation using a halogen lamp at proper wavelengths. Our results indicate that in vivo photodynamic therapy may cause a significant decrease in bFGF concentration and this phenomenon is accompanied by prolongation of survival of treated animals.

Photobleaching of compounds of the 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis(m-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin Series (m-THPP, m-THPC, and m-THPBC)

[reaction: see text] 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis(m-hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (m-THPP) yielded novel quinonoid porphyrins upon irradiation in aqueous methanol. True photobleaching was observed for 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(m-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin (m-THPC) and 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(m-hydroxyphenyl)bacteriochlorin (m-THPBC) under the same conditions; several fragmentation products (imides, methyl p-hydroxybenzoate, dipyrrin derivatives) were recognized.

Post-exposure processes in Temoporfin-photosensitized cells in vitro: reliance on energy metabolism

The progressive responses to photodynamic treatment (lambda > 590 nm) mediated by Temoporfin have been investigated in vitro on two rodent cell lines: BHK and murine hepatoma MH22 cells. Comparisons are made of two light exposure/post-exposure incubation media: Dulbecco's minimal essential medium (DMEM) and phosphate-buffered saline (DPBS) depleted of energy sources. Enhancement of lipid peroxidation is an early response to Temoporfin photosensitization in either experimental set. It is restored to the initial level by subsequent incubation in DMEM, but not in DPBS. The decrease in MTT specific activity and especially lactate dehydrogenase leakage from the cells are faster in DPBS and continue to proceed during the post-exposure incubation in the both media. The intracellular ATP pool is completely depleted within 3 h of post-exposure incubation in DPBS, but not in DMEM where, in contrast, an initial increase in ATP is observed. Based on these preliminary observations, it is presumed that ATP synthesized by injured mitochondria and activated glycolysis is being used to restore the deteriorated cell functions and/or to allow reactions involved in apoptosis to proceed.

Intraoperative photodynamic therapy with m-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin for chest malignancies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Since there is no satisfactory treatment modality for diffuse malignant mesothelioma of the chest, we assessed surgical tumor resection followed by intraoperative photodynamic therapy with mTHPC in a phase I study.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Since 1990, eight patients have undergone intraoperative photodynamic therapy with m-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin (mTHPC-PDT) following thoracotomy and surgical tumor resection.

RESULTS

mTHPC-PDT-mediated tumor necrosis was characterized by tumor infarction due to tumor vessel necrosis and thrombosis, and its extent depended on drug-light conditions; 650 nm light delivered at 0.1 W/cm2 for 10 J/cm2 48 h after iv administration of 0.3 mg mTHPC/kg resulted in a 10-mm-deep complete tumor necrosis. Skin photosensitivity was related to the drug dose applied and occurred up to 17 days after iv administration of 0.3 mg mTHPC/kg, mTHPC-PDT of brachial plexus infiltrated by mesothelioma resulted in pain relief without deterioration of nerve function.

CONCLUSION

Tumor resection and intraoperative mTHPC-PDT of the chest cavity is feasible under clinical conditions and offers local tumor control of sites involved. However, distant tumor spread was not prevented by this combined treatment modality and optimization of mTHPC-PDT is warranted for further intraoperative application.

Photodynamic therapy with m-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin in vivo: optimization of the therapeutic index

The therapeutic index of meta-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin-mediated photodynamic therapy (mTHPC-PDT) was assessed in BALB/c nude mice bearing human malignant mesothelioma xenografts. Equal doses of 650 nm laser light were delivered to the tumour and to an equal-sized area of the hind leg (control site) after i.p. administration of mTHPC. Twenty-one groups of 6 animals each were treated under various drug-light conditions and at drug-light intervals ranging from 4 hr to 6 days. After light delivery the extent of tumour necrosis and the depth of alterations in normal tissue were assessed by light microscopy of standardized histological sections. A therapeutic index (TI) of mTHPC-PDT was defined as the cross-sectional area of tumour necrosis per depth of visible tissue injury at the control site. This TI was strongly related to the conditions of treatment. In particular, it was increased by prolonging the drug-light interval up to 5 days and by increasing the dose of light for any dose of drug. The most profound increase of TI was obtained by increasing the intensity of light administered at the chosen interval while reducing the dose of drug. Our findings suggest that threshold conditions operate in PDT and have important implications for clinical application of the treatment.

Determination of 5,10,15,20-tetra-(m-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin in tissues by high performance liquid chromatography

A procedure for the extraction and high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) determination of the photodynamic therapeutic agent 5,10,15,20-tetra(m-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin in human, rat and mouse tissues following intravenous administration of the drug is described. The tissue (tumour, skin, muscle and liver) was homogenized and extracted into a mixture of methanol:dimethyl sulphoxide:water (32:8:1 by vol.) containing, 5,10,15,20-tetra(p-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin as the internal standard. The precipitated proteins were removed by centrifugation and the supernatant was separated by reversed phase HPLC on a Hypersil-ODS column with 77% (v/v) acetonitrile in 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid as the mobile phase. The solute was detected with high sensitivity and specificity by a UV-VIS detector set at 423 nm.

Effect of drug-light interval on photodynamic therapy with meta-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin in malignant mesothelioma

The influence of the time interval (TI) between drug administration and laser activation on selectivity of meta-tetrahydroxyphenylchlorin(mTHPC)-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) for tumour tissue was assessed in BALB/c nude mice bearing human malignant mesothelioma xenografts. Following i.p. administration of 0.3 mg/kg mTHPC, a light dose of 10 J/cm2 and 0.1 W/cm2 was delivered at 650 nm on the tumour and an equal-sized area of the hind leg after 4, 12, 24 and 36 hr and 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 days to groups of 6 animals (surface irradiance). Then, 72 hr after light delivery, the depth of necrosis was measured in the tumour and in the skin and underlying muscle of the hind leg. Photosensitized necrosis occurred in normal tissue at TI from 4 hr to 3 days and in the tumour at TI from 12 hr to 4 days. The therapeutic ratio of mTHPC-PDT varied significantly with the time interval between drug administration and laser activation and was greatest at an interval of 3 days. mTHPC concentration was measured in 3 control unirradiated animals at all time points in normal tissues and in tumour tissue, and found to be the same in both tissues. Thus the tissue concentration of mTHPC was of limited use as regards the prediction of photosensitizing effects in the tumour model.

Determination of 5,10,15,20-tetra-(m-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin in human plasma by high performance liquid chromatography

A high performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of the photodynamic chemotherapeutic agent 5,10,15,20-tetra(m-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin (m-THPC) in human plasma following intravenous infusion is described. The procedure involves extraction of the drug in plasma with methanol/dimethyl sulphoxide (4:1 v/v) containing 5,10,15,20-tetra(p-hydroxyphenyl)chlorin as the internal standard and separation on a C18 reversed phase column with acetonitrile:0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (77:23 v/v) as the mobile phase. The drug was detected specifically and sensitively at its absorption maximum of 423 nm with a detection limit of 15 ng/mL (signal-to-noise ratio of 5). The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation (CV) on analysis of a plasma spiked with m-THPC (1 micrograms/mL) were 2.3 and 3.4% (n = 6), respectively.

Protective effects of a novel perfluorochemical emulsion in photodynamic therapy

The effects of pre-injection of mice with a novel perfluorodecalin-based emulsion on the responses to photodynamic therapy (PDT) using the photosensitizer, metatetra (hydroxyphenyl) porphyrin (m-THPP), have been studied. Injection of emulsion after m-THPP and before illumination (activating wavelength 648 nm) protected skin against PDT-induced inflammatory effects, as reflected by decreases (P less than 0.05) in vascular permeability and oedema formation. However, there was no protection against epidermal cell loss. In contrast, injection of emulsion before sensitizer had no corresponding effect. A fall in mean dermal temperature of up to 6 degrees C occurred in mice injected with emulsion 1-2.5 h before illumination suggesting a decrease in skin blood flow which would reduce oedema formation. Possible mechanism(s) for this apparent protective effect are discussed.

Photodynamic therapy with chlorins for diffuse malignant mesothelioma: initial clinical results

Four patients underwent intraoperative photodynamic therapy after surgery with meso-tetra-(hydroxyphenyl)-chlorin (mTHPC-PDT) for diffuse malignant mesothelioma. Preliminary procedures were performed in two patients in order to establish the efficacy of mTHPC-PDT and to optimise its tumoricidal effect. The tumoricidal effect was related to the mTHPC dose, light dose and the time interval between sensitation and activation. 0.3 mg kg-1 mTHPC activated after 48 h with 10 Joules cm-2 of non-thermal laser light at 650 nm resulted in a 10 mm deep tumour infarction, due to tumour vessel necrosis and thrombosis. The mTHPC tissue concentration was up to 14 times higher in the tumour than in normal tissues. Skin photosensitivity was mild, dose dependent and occurred 3 to 10 days after administration of mTHPC. According to the results obtained, intraoperative mTHPC-PDT was performed following pleuropneumonectomy in two, pleurectomy and lobectomy in one and pleurectomy in one patient. Ten Joules cm-2 were delivered to the diaphragm and the costophrenic sulcus and 5 Joules cm-2 to the remaining thoracic cavity. The postoperative course was marked by loss of appetite, fluid retention, hypoproteinemia and severe chest pain. One patient succumbed from aspiration pneumonia. The remaining patients developed no neural or vascular alterations and no bronchial stump insufficiency during follow-up. mTHPC-PDT following surgical tumour resection deserves further evaluation in good risk patients with diffuse malignant mesothelioma.