Verteporfin developer honored for research

Vancouver, British Columbia-A research chemist from QLT Inc. who helped develop the verteporfin for injection (Visudyne, QLT/Novartis Ophthalmics) treatment for age-related macular degeneration is among 13 chemists from four companies who have been named Heroes of Chemistry by the American Chemical Society.

David H. Dolphin, PhD, and other honorees received their awards Aug. 22 at the society's 228th national meeting in Philadelphia. He is vice president, technology development at QLT Inc. and professor of chemistry and the QLT/NSERC Industrial Research Professor in Photodynamic Technologies at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver, Canada. Dr. Dolphin received his doctorate in chemistry from the University of Nottingham, England, in 1965.

"The chemical advances made by our 'heroes' serve as testimonials to the valuable role chemists, chemical engineers, and allied scientists play in improving lives," said Charles P. Casey, PhD, the society's president.