HPLC study of chlorin e6 and its molecular complex with polyvinylpyrrolidone

Abstract Several HPLC methods with UV detection were developed for qualitative and quantitative analysis of chlorin e 6 and photosensitizer Photolon either in the free form or upon pre‐derivatization (methylation) under reversed‐ and normal‐phase conditions. Optimum analysis conditions providing the best resolution of analytes were found at acidic pH where polar groups are completely protonated. The separation was performed by gradient elution with mobile phases of 0.08% trifluoroacetic acid and acetonitrile on an XTerra RP 18 column. The method was specific, accurate and precise, allowing the analysis of chlorin e 6 in the presence of numerous degradation products useful in the manufacturing process and quality control of chlorin e 6 and Photolon. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.