Photodynamic effects on the nuclear envelope of human skin fibroblasts

Photodynamic effects on the nuclear envelope of human skin fibroblasts were investigated by confocal laser fluorescence microscopy and transmembrane resting potential measurements. The results show staining of the nuclear envelope after short incubation times with Photosan III, Photofrin II and haematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) enriched with monomers. Maximum staining was found at the centre of the nuclear envelope. The sequence of fluorescence intensity was HPD enriched with monomers > Photofrin II > Photosan III. After lethal treatment with Photosan III and tetrasulphonated aluminium chloride phthalocyanine, the nuclear transmembrane potential of the nuclear membrane decreased from -20 mV to about -10 mV with reference to the plasma membrane potential.