Abstract: A system and method for treating a fluid carrying a contaminant to which a photoactive material has been bound include a treatment device that defines a flow passage with a gap. The system and method operate to establish a flow of fluid from the inlet end of the gap to the outlet end of the gap. The system and method also channel the flow of fluid in the gap in succession through one or more flow paths. The system and method establish at least two discrete sources of radiation in the flow path at spaced apart locations along the direction of fluid flow. At least one of the radiation sources comprises a photodiode. The system and method further include a control for operating each discrete source of radiation at a selected wavelength within the prescribed range to activate the photoactive material bound to the contaminant. Upon activation, the material eradicates the contaminant.

Abstract: Treatment with a set of porphyrin compounds using a photodynamic therapy approach is able selectively to lower elevated levels of activated leukocytes in a leukocyte population. This is particularly helpful in subjects containing such elevated levels of T-cell subsets, such as HIV-infected subjects.

Abstract: A method destroys or impairs target cells that have selectively accumulated a photosensitizing agent. The target cells are in the bloodstream of an intact animal, which bloodstream and animal further contain non-target cells. Radiation is applied transcutaneously to at least a portion of the intact animal at an intensity effective to impair or destroy selectively the target cells and to leave non-target cells relatively unimpaired. Target cells include leukemia cells, virus-containing cells, parasite-containing cells, and microorganisms such as bacteria, parasites and free viruses.

Abstract: Methods to prepare intermediates for the conjugation of active ingredients to hydrophilic carriers are described. The polyhydroxylated carriers are first derivatized to convert the hydroxyls to leaving groups and then reacted with an alkylene diamine in the presence of a reducing agent. The resulting derivatized carrier can then be coupled to substituents containing carboxyl groups in the presence of dehydrating agents.

Abstract: Porphyrin-type photosensitizers useful in photodynamic therapy can be formulated as water soluble drugs by conjugation of the photosensitizer to a hydrophilic polymer. Conjugation of the photosensitizer in varying ratios to the polymer, such as polyvinyl alcohol, provides compositions which are readily soluble and biodistribute in a fashion equal to or advantageous over that obtained when the photosensitizer is administered alone. In addition, these conjugates which further a contain target specific component provide a mechanism for homing to the desired target tissue, as well as offering a convenient approach to including both target specific component and photosensitizing drug in the same complex.

Abstract: Improved, economical devices for immunoassays employ a reusable syringe or vacuum manifold to withdraw samples through a membrane containing an affinity partner for analyte. The devices can also be adapted to direct blood sampling and to automated assays.