Convenient screening methods for the photosensitivity

Two kinds of convenient photosensitivity screening methods (Methods A and B) were established to find new photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy (PDT). Method A is based on oxidation mechanism of cholesterol and types I and II can be specified. Method B is performed using dansyl-l-methionine and offers the benefits of fast response time. Various porphyrin, chlorin and phthalocyanine derivatives were synthesized and subjected to the screening methods. The assays have yielded similar results. The results were also identical to the photosensitivity (Ga > Zn > Mn-complex) of water-soluble metalloporphyrins bearing the same side chains. Therefore, the Methods A and B were thought to be appropriate as screening methods to find lead compounds of photosensitizers for PDT.