Synthesis, spectroscopic properties and interaction with a liposomal membrane of a novel iodinated magnesium phthalocyanine.

Highlights: [•] Mg tetraiodophthalocyanine is described with the purpose of applying it as a photosensitizer to eradicate cancerous cells. [•] Magnesium phthalocyanine produces singlet oxygen and other reactive oxygen species with an excellent quantum yield of 0.95. [•] It possesses the ability to penetrate lipid membranes of liposomes with binding constant equal K b =40.5±6.4 (mg/mL)−1. [•] Limited photostability of the dye is advantageous for the PDT to promote rapid breakdown and clearance after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]