Synthesis of β‐Substituted Porphyrin Derivatives Containing Heterocyclic Moieties as Potential Photosensitizers Against Cutaneous Leishmaniasis

This work reports the synthesis of porphyrin derivatives with potential leishmanicidal activity. The β‐substituents contain amine/imine‐heterocyclic features. Molecular docking simulations of these compounds to a model of the enzyme arginase from Leishmania amazonensis were carried out. Singlet oxygen generation studies have been also considered. The obtained leishmanicidal properties show that these compounds can be considered as prototypes for future cutaneous antileishmaniasis agents.