Silicon phthalocyanine 158 (Pc 158)

Silicon phthalocyanine 158 (Pc 158) is a second-generation photosensitizer used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) that primarily targets the mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) compartments of cells. Upon activation by specific wavelengths of light, Pc 158 generates reactive oxygen species, particularly singlet oxygen, which causes localized oxidative damage to its target environment. The primary molecular target within this environment is the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, which is degraded or inactivated, leading to the rapid induction of apoptosis via the intrinsic pathway. Pc 158 is highly hydrophobic and localizes preferentially in lipid-rich organelle membranes, making it effective against various cancer cell lines by disrupting mitochondrial integrity and triggering cell death signals.

Other names

Pc 158Bis(3-dimethylaminopropyldimethylsiloxy)silicon phthalocyanineSilicon phthalocyanine target environment

Photosensitization leading to singlet oxygen production and subsequent Bcl-2 degradation and mitochondrial dysfunction