Abstract: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used to stimulate and/or restore hair growth in areas of hair loss. Methods and compositions relating to PDT treatment for alopecia are disclosed. In light of PDT use to remove unwanted hair by inactivating or destroying hair follicles or destroying the tissue feeding the hair follicles, such methods and compositions relate to a surprising and unexpected discovery. PDT permits a means to treat conditions relating to hair loss such as androgenic alopecia, alopecia areata and drug-induced alopecia.

Abstract: New compounds useful in photodynamic therapy are of the formula and their 1,4-diene isomers and the metallated and/or labeled and/or conjugated forms thereof wherein each R1 is independently alkyl(1-6C); each n is independently an integer of 0-6; and R2 is vinyl or a derivative form thereof.

Abstract: Immuno-adjuvant photodynamic therapy to treat and prevent metastatic cancer is effected using photosensitizers in combination with immuno-adjuvants to destroy metastatic tumor cells.

Abstract: New compounds useful in photodynamic therapy are of the formula and their 1,4-diene isomers and the metallated and/or labeled and/or conjugated forms thereof wherein each R1 is independently alkyl (1-6C); each n is independently an integer of 0-6; and R2 is vinyl or a derivative form thereof.

Abstract: This invention is a process for the use of a combination of ionizing radiation in conjunction with certain benzoporphyrin derivative compounds (BPD), preferably the compound benzoporphyrin derivative-monoacid ring-A (BPD-MA), to mediate the destruction of diseased or unwanted cells or tissues. Specifically, the invention is a method in which the sensitizer compounds are administered either systemically or locally to the diseased or unwanted tissue and irradiated with ionizing radiation (such as might be produced by a .sup.60 Co or x-ray source). The treatment with benzoporphyrin derivative compounds appears to sensitize the target cells or tissues in that those cells do not readily recover from irradiation exposure. In addition, the process may be used to lower the effective amount of radiation applied to a particular tissue target.

Abstract: Green porphyrins act as antigen-specific immunomodulators in the active phase of an immune response to a particular antigen, as well as to interfere with intercellular communication. These effects occur in the absence of radiation absorbed by the green porphyrin.