CHED 1162 |
| Porphyrins are highly conjugated aromatic systems composed of four pyrole subunits onto which different side chains can be added. The properties of a particular porphyrin are dependent upon the side chains. Porphyrins and their derivatives have a high affinity for tumor cells and have been known to interact with DNA in various ways. Porphyrins have also exhibited the ability to increase their activity when exposed to light. These light sensitive compounds are known as photosensitive. The porphyrin, ZnTPPPipOH, with a piperazinepropanol side chain, was developed and investigated on its ability to interact with various DNA sequences. The side chains of this derivative have a similar structure to a drug currently used that is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier. The ability of porphyrin derivatives to cleave DNA combined with the ability to cross the blood brain barrier and their affinity for tumor cells produces the potential to target tumors in the brain. White light and ultraviolet light were used to activate the porphyrin with DNA bases. The initial results of the study provide evidence that ZnTPPPipOH and DNA can interact. Further studies will reveal in what manner the two are interacting and if ZnTPPPipOH has the potential to destroy DNA. |
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Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Inorganic Chemistry
2:00 PM-4:00 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster
Division of Chemical Education |