lemuteporfin

Lemuteporfin is a second-generation photosensitizing agent belonging to the benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD) class, specifically the ring B regioisomer. It is designed for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT), a treatment modality where the drug is administered and subsequently activated by non-thermal laser light at a specific wavelength (approximately 688-690 nm). Upon light activation, lemuteporfin facilitates the transfer of energy to molecular oxygen, generating highly reactive singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species (ROS). These species induce localized oxidative damage, leading to microvascular occlusion, cellular apoptosis, and tissue destruction. Developed by QLT Inc., lemuteporfin was primarily investigated for dermatological conditions such as sebaceous gland hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia, as well as ophthalmic disorders like age-related macular degeneration. It is structurally related to verteporfin (the ring A regioisomer) but possesses distinct pharmacokinetic and tissue distribution profiles.

Other names

BPD-MBbenzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring B