Porphyrin Conjugates

Abstract

Due to their photophysical and pharmacokinetic pro­perties, porphyrin conjugates are used as photosensitisers in clinical practice, especially in photodynamic therapy (PDT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The use of porphyrins alone is limited because of their hydrophobicity, low cellular uptake and low selectivity. To suppress the disadvantages their conjugates with various natural products (saccharides, proteins, polymers or steroids) were tested. Porphyrin conjugates can be visualised after cellular uptake by fluorescence microscopy. Determination of their precise localization in the cell is crucial for further biological scenario control. This review summari­zes the obtained results.