A Glutathione-Activated Phthalocyanine-Based Photosensitizer for Photodynamic Therapy

A zinc(II) phthalocyanine substituted with a 2,4‐dinitrobenzenesulfonate group has been prepared. Its fluorescence emission and reactive oxygen species generation can be greatly enhanced by glutathione in phosphate‐buffered saline and inside MCF‐7 cells. This compound thus functions as a highly efficient molecular‐based activatable photosensitizer. Light therapy: Fluorescence emission and reactive oxygen species generation are greatly enhanced in a molecular phthalocyanine‐quencher system upon interaction with glutathione (see figure). Its activation has also been demonstrated in vivo.