Heterocyclic Macrocycle Organic Compounds with Fullerenes for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disease

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising neurodegenerative disease treatment. This technique utilizes light-sensitive compounds, known as photosensitizers, and a specific wavelength of light. Among the various photosensitizers, fullerenes and porphyrins have emerged as significant agents due to their unique properties and potential synergistic effects when used together. Fullerenes have shown potential in crossing biological barriers and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon irradiation with light. Modifying fullerenes is crucial for effective PDT since their solubility in biological environments is very low. Functionalization with various groups can also improve the photodynamic efficacy.

Porphyrins, a group of heterocyclic macrocycle organic compounds, produce singlet oxygen and other types of ROS upon light irradiation, leading to cell death primarily through apoptotic pathways. The combination of fullerene and porphyrins in PDT can potentially leverage the strengths of both photosensitizers by Enhanced ROS Production and Broadened Absorption Spectrum.

In this paper, these molecules are combined to achieve a synergistic effect so that the overall photodynamic action can be greater than the sum of their individual effects. We observed an energy transfer between the fullerene and porphyrin molecules.

Functionalization of fullerenes, such as hydroxylation or carboxylation, was performed to reduce the cytotoxicity and improve the biocompatibility of the fullerenes when they enter cells through passive diffusion and endocytosis.