Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization and singlet oxygen generation of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl) porphyrin as a potential photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy

Singlet oxygen is a valuable reactive oxygen species known for its effective action on the elimination of cancers and age-related eye disease such as macular degeneration. In this study, 5,10,15,20-tetrakis (3,5-dimethoxyphenyl) porphyrin was synthesized and characterized using various spectroscopic methods. The λmax for the Soret and Q bands were 417 nm and 514, 547, 589 and 646 (nm) respectively. The estimated singlet oxygen yield (φΔ) for the porphyrin was higher than some literature reports, suggesting a stronger potential of the porphyrin for the photosensitizing photodynamic treatment of cancer and other related human disorders.