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: Multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis can be treated effectively using photodynamic therapy. In this protocol, a photoactive compound is administered, allowed to distribute in the effected subject, and the subject is then irradiated to activate the photoactive compound. Alternatively, the blood of a subject to be treated can be subjected to PDT extracorporeally. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, localized treatment at the joints may also be employed.

Abstract: Photodynamic therapy of conditions of the eye characterized by unwanted neovasculature, such as age-related macular degeneration, is effective using green porphyrins as photoactive agents, preferably as liposomal compositions.

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.

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: 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: A method to inhibit the development of intimal hyperplasia following vascular intervention procedures (angioplasty) is disclosed. The method consists essentially of administering a green porphyrin to the subject concurrent with and following the angioplasty. No purposeful irradiation with light absorbed by the green porphyrin is required or employed in the method.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for inactivating pathogens in a body fluid, such as plasma, red cells, platelets, leukocytes, and bone marrow. The present invention minimizes adverse effects caused by the photosensitive agents while retaining the disinfecting activity of such agents and processes. Pursuant to the present invention, prior to irradiating a body fluid including a photoactive drug, the extracellular fluid, which in the case of blood components includes plasma proteins is at least substantially reduced. Additionally, after the irradiation process, the resultant body fluid is prevented from contacting additional extracellular fluid, e.g., plasma proteins, for a predefined period.

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: A pharmaceutical composition comprising a freeze-dried preparation of polyhematoporphyrin ether/esters wherein said freeze dried preparation does not contain sodium chloride. Upon reconstitution, the pharmaceutical composition is a photosensitizer preparation useful in photodynamic therapy.

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.