This review summarizes recent developments in the area of porphyrin chemistry in the direction of biological applications. Novel synthetic methodologies are reviewed for porphyrin synthesis, porphyrin analog synthesis, stable porphyrinogens - calixpyrroles, expanded porphyrins. Unique biological properties of those compounds are desribed
with focus on photodynamic therapy (PDT) and molecular recognition properties. Special attentions given to metalloporphyrins with potential to affect heme degradation and CO formation.