Pyropheophorbide a methyl ester is a photosensitizer and a derivative of chlorophyll a .1 It induces cell death in RIF-1 cells when used in combination with photodynamic therapy (PDT) at concentrations of 0.06 and 1 µM. Pyropheophorbide a methyl ester localizes to cell membranes and induces IL-1 receptor internalization and NF-κB activation following light exposure in HCT116 cells.2
1.Chen, Y., Zheng, X., Dobhal, M.P., et al.Methyl pyropheophorbide-a analogues: Potential fluorescent probes for the peripheral-type benzodiazepine receptor. Effect of central metal in photosensitizing efficacyJ. Med. Chem.48(11)3692-3695(2005) 2.Matroule, J.-Y., Bonizzi, G., MorliÈre, P., et al.Pyropheophorbide-a methyl ester-mediated photosensitization activates transcription factor NF-κB through the interleukin-1 receptor-dependent signaling pathwayJ. Biol. Chem.274(5)2988-3000(1999)