sulfonatoporphyrin + sunlight

Sulfonatoporphyrin (TPPS) is a synthetic porphyrin-based photosensitizer being investigated by Kafrelsheikh University as a photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of COVID-19. The therapeutic approach involves the administration of TPPS followed by exposure to sunlight, which activates the compound to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS are intended to inactivate the SARS-CoV-2 virus by inducing protein oxidation and causing single-strand breaks in the viral RNA genome. This mechanism is based on the hypothesis that the virus interacts with heme and porphyrin structures, and the multi-targeted nature of ROS-mediated inactivation is thought to reduce the likelihood of the virus developing resistance. The treatment is being evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical trial (NCT04371822) for patients with severe respiratory failure due to COVID-19.

Other names

Sulfonatoporphyrinmeso-tetra(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrintetrasulfonated tetraphenylporphyrinTPPS-Kafrelsheikh University-COVID-19