Importance

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Abstract

Compounds of fomula (1) or formula (2): ##STR1## wherein M is a non-paramagnetic metal selected from Mg.sup.+2, and Zn.sup.+2, or represents 2 H.sup.+ each H.sup.+ bonded to one of the N atoms connected by the solid lines; R.sup.1 is a saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbyl residue of 8-25C; each R.sup.2 is independently selected from the group consisting of vinyl, ethyl, acetyl and 1-hydroxyethyl, and X is COOR.sup.3, wherein R.sup.3 is alkyl (1-4C); are useful in photodynamic therapy and diagnosis. These compounds photosensitize target biological substrates to irradiation, and treating said substrates with these sensitizers followed by irradiation leads to the impairment or destruction of the biological substrate. When administered systemically, these compounds accumulate in the undesired target biological substrate. The compounds can also be utilized in vitro, for example to destroy infectious cells or viruses in blood intended for transfusion.

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First Claim