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Derivatives of Natural Chlorophylls as Agents for Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy
Nikita Suvorov1, Viktor Pogorilyy1, Ekaterina Diachkova2
1Department of Chemistry and Technology of Biologically Active Compounds, Medicinal and Organic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemical Technology, MIREA-Russian Technological University, 119571 Moscow, Russia.
Abstract:
The rapid growth of drug-resistant bacteria all over the world has given rise to a major research challenge, namely a search for alternative treatments to which bacteria will be unable to develop resistance. Photodynamic therapy is an approach of this kind. It involves the use of photosensitizers in combination with visible light at a certain wavelength to excite the former and generate reactive oxygen species. Various synthetic heterocyclic compounds are used as photosensitizers. Of these, derivatives of natural chlorophylls have a special place due to their properties. This review deals with the use of such compounds in antimicrobial PDT.
Insights
Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) offers a novel approach to combat drug-resistant bacteria. This review explores chlorophyll derivatives as photosensitizers for effective antimicrobial treatments.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Photomedicine
Background:
- Rising global antimicrobial resistance poses a significant public health threat.
- Conventional antibiotics are becoming less effective against resistant bacterial strains.
- Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to overcome bacterial resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of chlorophyll derivatives in antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT).
- To highlight the potential of these natural compound derivatives as photosensitizers against resistant bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies utilizing chlorophyll derivatives in antimicrobial PDT.
- Analysis of photosensitizer properties and their efficacy in generating reactive oxygen species.
- Evaluation of bacterial inactivation mechanisms induced by chlorophyll-based aPDT.
Main Results:
- Chlorophyll derivatives demonstrate promising photosensitizing capabilities for aPDT.
- These compounds effectively generate reactive oxygen species upon light activation, leading to bacterial cell damage.
- Studies show significant antimicrobial activity against various bacterial pathogens.
Conclusions:
- Chlorophyll derivatives are viable candidates for developing novel antimicrobial photodynamic therapies.
- aPDT using chlorophyll-based photosensitizers presents a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics.
- Further research into optimizing these agents could lead to effective treatments for resistant infections.

