Bacteriochlorophyll a and Its Derivatives: Chemistry and Perspectives for Cancer Therapy

The review summarizes the chemistry of the third generation of photosensitizers, namely, the derivatives of natural bacteriochlorophyll a, for photodynamic treatment of cancer. The compounds of this class strongly absorb light at lambda=770-850 nm. This unique property opens new therapeutic opportunities due to deeper tissue penetration of light, thereby increasing the photodamage for tumor eradication. Analyzed are the modifications of bacteriochlorophyll a, that improve physico-chemical characteristics of compounds and enhance accumulation in tumors. Focusing on the delivery of photosensitizers to the tumor site and to specific intracellular compartments, we describe the conjugates of bacteriochlorophyll a, derivatives with carbohydrate and protein carriers. Boronated bacteriochlorins can be used in both photodynamic and boron neutron capture therapy.