We have investigated the DNA binding interactions and in vitro photoactivated DNA damage induced by a neutral water soluble porphyrin derivative 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (TTHPP) and its zinc derivative 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)porphyrinato zinc(II) (Zn-TTHPP) upon visible light irradiation through various spectroscopic techniques and employing repair endonucleases. These porphyrin derivatives exhibited high affinity towards DNA through groove binding interactions as evidenced through the UV-vis absorption, emission, circular dichroism spectral and viscosity changes. Interestingly, the free base porphyrin derivative, TTHPP generated efficient singlet oxygen mediated DNA damage sensitive to formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycosylase (Fpg protein), when compared to its metal derivative and to the well-known photosensitizer, hematoporphyrin. These results providedirect evidence for the role of DNA binding mode as well as extent of interactions with DNA in the efficiency of photoactivated DNA damage induced by the neutral porphyrins, which are believed to be the ideal candidates for photodynamic therapeutic applications. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.