Synthesis of new photosensitizers through the Japp-Klingemann reaction with chlorophyll-a

• Grant number: 13/21415-4
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): December 01, 2013
• Effective date (End): November 30, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Kleber Thiago de Oliveira
• Grantee: Vanessa Ayumi Kuana
• Home Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/07276-1 - CEPOF - Optics and Photonic Research Center, AP.CEPID

Abstract

This work aims at the isolation, synthetic modification and the obtainment of new chlorophyll derivatives for use as photosensitizers in material and medical science. Shortly, we proposed the isolation of chlorophyll a from Spirulina maxima (algae) by using methanolic/acid catalyst in order to directly obtain the methylpheophorbide a, a precursor for the desired functionalizations through the Japp-Klingermann reaction. Based on our previous experience with chlorophylls derivatives, it is expected that these new functionalized compounds will present several improved photophysical properties, including a near infrared absorbance that is essential for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT) as well as organic dye-sensitizing solar cells (SC).