Bacteriochlorophyll a and Its Derivatives: Chemistry and Perspectives for Cancer Therapy

Title: Bacteriochlorophyll a and Its Derivatives: Chemistry and Perspectives for Cancer Therapy

Volume: 8 Issue: 6

Author(s): Mikhail A. Grin, Andrey F. Mironov and Alexander A. Shtil

Affiliation:

Keywords: Cancer Therapy, Bacteriochlorophyll a, photosensitizers, photodynamic treatment, tumor eradication, boron neutron capture therapy

Abstract: The review summarizes the chemistry of the third generation of photosensitizers, namely, the derivatives of natural bacteriochlorophyll a for photodynamic treatment of cancer. The compounds of this class strongly absorb light at λ=770-850 nm. This unique property opens new therapeutic opportunities due to deeper tissue penetration of light, thereby increasing the photodamage for tumor eradication. Analyzed are the modifications of bacteriochlorophyll a that improve physico-chemical characteristics of compounds and enhance accumulation in tumors. Focusing on the delivery of photosensitizers to the tumor site and to specific intracellular compartments, we describe the conjugates of bacteriochlorophyll a derivatives with carbohydrate and protein carriers. Boronated bacteriochlorins can be used in both photodynamic and boron neutron capture therapy.

Cite this article as:

Grin A. Mikhail, Mironov F. Andrey and Shtil A. Alexander, Bacteriochlorophyll a and Its Derivatives: Chemistry and Perspectives for Cancer Therapy, Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry 2008; 8 (6) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/187152008785133128