Light-Responsive Molecular Tools for Biomedical Applications

Photopharmacology is an emerging field at the interface of chemistry, biology, and medicine that exploits photoswitchable and photocleavable bioactive compounds to achieve precise spatiotemporal control of biological functions using light. This approach offers innovative strategies to address major challenges in neuroscience, cancer therapy, and antimicrobial resistance by enabling the reversible and localized modulation of drug activity. In this presentation, we will explore the design and application of molecular photoswitches, focusing on azobenzene-based systems. Key examples include the development of photoswitchable dualsteric ligands to modulate muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, light-activated anticancer agents such as phototrexate for controlled inhibition of folate metabolism, and photoswitchable inhibitors targeting bacterial biofilms to combat antimicrobial resistance. We will also discuss strategies to overcome the intrinsic limitations of small-molecule photoswitches, such as limited tissue penetration and potential phototoxicity, through red-shifting, multiphoton excitation, and upconversion systems. These innovative molecular tools pave the way for next-generation precision therapeutics, offering new opportunities to improve selectivity, reduce systemic side effects, and tackle complex biomedical challenges.