Photochemical strategies allow one to control location, timing, and dosage for the delivery of bioactive agents to physiological targets.  In this context, we have explored the photoreactions of various metal complexes that are precursors for the targeted release of the small molecule bioregulators nitric oxide and carbon monoxide as well as of a potentially therapeutic molecule, carbon disulfide.  Since such precursors often display poor absorbances at longer visible wavelengths, we have turned our attention to developing various mini-, micro- and nano-carriers that combine the photochemical precursors with various types of antennas designed to utilize tissue penetrating red or near infrared light as the excitation source. Of particular interest are quantum dots and NIR-to-visible upconverting nanoparticles that can serve as multi-photon antennae for light absorption and subsequent photo-sensitization.<br/>

Strategies for the photochemical uncaging of bioactive small molecules

249th National Meeting (2015)

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