Clinical Drug Experience Knowledgebase

Chlorophyll is a green pigment present in plants, as well as in eukaryotic single-celled algae and in several photosynthetic prokaryotes (the cyanobacteria and prochlorophytes), it plays crucial role in photosynthesis. The initial step in photosynthesis is the absorption of light by chlorophylls attached to proteins in the thylakoid membranes. Like cytochromes, chlorophylls consist of a porphyrin ring attached to a long hydrocarbon side chain. The energy of the absorbed light is used to remove electrons from an unwilling donor (water, in green plants), forming oxygen, and then to transfer the electrons to a primary electron acceptor, a quinone designated Q, which is similar to CoQ. Chlorophyll derivatives Radachlorin/Bremachlorin and Radachlorophyll/Bremachlorophyll are actually a second generation photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy of malignant and benign pathologies. Radachlorophyll/Bremachlorophyll may change blood lipids and pressure, including: (1) reduced total cholesterol; (2) increased HDL cholesterol; (3) reduced triglycerides; and (4) reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as immunomodulating properties. As a dietary supplement chlorophyll supports multiple body systems: provides antioxidant activity, supports vascular health, supports the body's normal immune system function, provides cardiovascular support, maintains skin and hair health. Chlorophylls (E140) is used as a food additive.   ^NCATS