Photocaging is a fundamental concept in chemical biology. However, existing approaches are generally limited to cell-based studies due to the requirement of UV or blue light, which suffers from associated toxicity and poor tissue penetration. By contrast, light between 650 and 900 nm, often referred to as the near-IR window, is cytocompatible and has significant tissue penetration. We are developing generally applicable near-IR light-initiated uncaging reactions. These reactions will allow us to address fundamental and applied biomedical questions. The precisely controlled introduction of biological stimuli will enable studies within complex model organisms that address cell-cell interactions or control/monitor cell fate. In this area, we are developing advanced tools to spatially pattern gene expression. From a medical perspective, the ability to release therapeutic molecules using the targeted application of near-IR light will facilitate the creation of innovative drug delivery strategies. In this area, we are developing theranostic tools to treat otherwise unresectable tumors and micrometastases.

Near-IR uncaging chemistry: Discovery and applications

251st National Meeting (2016)

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