The photodegradation of a zinc phthalocyanine

A water-soluble zinc phthalocyanine (Pc), ZnPc (3), bearing 12 dimethylamino groups, which enhance the solubility of the macrocycle was synthesized and characterized. Photobleaching of the compound was examined both in vivo and in vitro. Laser irradiation causes photo-oxidation of the newly synthesized ZnPc. A photobleachable phthalocyanine can be an alternative in imaging; phthalocyanine dyes are used in imaging the cardiovascular system. Besides, it can be used in fluorescein angiography in some cases. When compared to stable ones, a photobleaching ZnPc (3) might be an attractive compound for imaging in medicine.