Absorption (A) and 1H NMR (B) spectra of 12,18-didecarboxysirohydrochlorin hexamethyl ester. Samples were dissolved in pyridine (A) or d-chloroform (B), respectively. The absorption spectrum showed maxima at 381.5, 510.5, 546.0, 586.5, and 635.0 nm. In the 1H NMR spectrum, assignments are given on the top of each signal. The structure of 12,18-didecarboxysirohydrochlorin hexamethyl ester (3ox) is shown along with the numbering system. Rings A, B, C, and D are named clockwise from the upper left.