Investigation of a novel triazatetrabenzcorrole photosensitizer

A novel phthalocyanine-like photosensitizer, oxophosphorus(V) tetrasulfotriaza-tetrabenzcorrole ( POTBCS 4 ), has been synthesized. Its structure and absorption spectrum are unique. POTBCS 4 has an axial P = O group and peripheral sulfo groups. The fluorescence emission spectra, fluorescence quantum yield and quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation have been studied. The uptake and the photodynamic activities against HeLa cells were measured. The results indicated that POTBCS 4 was a potential photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT).