Photo induced anti-inflammatory activities of a Thiophene substituted subphthalocyanine derivative

Materials that possess photo induced biological activities present opportunities for more localized, targeted and efficient treatment options that may also reduce side effects. There have been studies supporting photo induced effects of photosensitizers as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents. In this study, we tested photo activated anti-inflammatory effects of a Thiophene substituted subphthalocyanine (SubPc) derivative. Thiophene and its derivatives are well known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects. There are unwanted side effects associated with Thiophene derivatives. By substituting this biologically active molecule to SubPc structure we acquired control over its activation. Upon light treatment this derivative exerted anti-inflammatory activity on the mammalian macrophages in vitro based on the substantial decrease in extracellular inflammatory cytokine levels. Our results suggest that Thiophene substituted SubPc derivative has photo induced anti-inflammatory activities. This material can be used for the treatment of patients suffering from chronic inflammation that are not associated with a bacterial burden such as autoimmune diseases and inflammatory or allergic reactions.