Complex Molecule Synthesis

Using traditional chemical methods, researchers can utilize photocatalysis to initiate specific reactions that were previously limited or impossible.  According to an ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letter, "Photocatalysis is uniquely positioned for application in pharmaceutical development because of its demonstrated potential for broad functional group tolerance, biocompatibility, site-specific selectivity, and operational simplicity."

Protein Target Identification

New therapeutic approaches often fail in clinical trials due to lacking target validation. Small molecule photocatalysis is a viable alternative for researchers that can accurately identify key protein targets. Where researchers were previously stuck with outdated stoichiometric approaches to target identification, photocatalysis can empower more accurate research - improving clinical outcomes.                                                                                 

Biomolecule Labeling

Understanding how biomolecules are organized within cells is crucial for comprehending their functions in biological processes. In recent years, scientists have developed advanced techniques to map these biomolecules in their natural environments. One such technique, proximity-dependent labeling, has proven to be a powerful tool for this purpose. It relies on generating highly reactive molecules that can attach themselves to nearby biomolecules within extremely small distances.

Among the different proximity-dependent labeling methods, photocatalytic approaches stand out for their ability to precisely control where and when labeling occurs using visible light. This means researchers can target specific areas within cells and activate the labeling process only when needed.

Cancer Cell Interactions

Photocatalysis has gained a lot of ground as a minimally invasive cancer treatment. Phototherapy can be used to target tumors and avoid damage to normal cells at a very high level of accuracy. 

A process called photodynamic therapy (PDT) has become a well-established treatment option for cancer that has been used to kill cancer cells and reduce the size of tumors. 

Photocatalysis has also shown promise as a drug delivery method. In cancer treatment, patients often suffer from severe side effects caused by medication. Nanocatalyst-based therapy can potentially reduce these side effects and improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients.           

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance has become a serious challenge in the medical industry. As bacteria develop ways to resist our antibiotics, it's important to find ways to mitigate this threat so antibiotics can be as effective as possible. 

Researchers have used photocatalysis to accurately locate the genes responsible for increased resistance so that they can be modified. 

Gene Editing

One challenge of gene editing techniques like CRISPR is accurately locating the genes that need to be cut and modified. By using light activation, scientists could find the gene target without prematurely cutting the gene. 

This technique works by using a light-sensitive RNA molecule that only allows CRISPR to cut a DNA sequence after exposure to a certain light wavelength.    

Hydrogen Generation

Using a method called 'water splitting', photocatalysis can be used to create sustainable energy by harnessing hydrogen gas. Clean hydrogen can be produced from sunlight and water by using this process, and it has shown a lot of promise in our pursuit of carbon neutrality. 

Environmental Remediation

Photocatalysis offers a green and efficient method for environmental remediation. Photocatalytic materials can be used to degrade organic pollutants, such as dyes, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds, under light irradiation. By harnessing the energy of light, photocatalysis activates the photocatalyst's surface and generates reactive species that can break down and eliminate pollutants, contributing to the purification of air and water.