Emerging Roles of Photoredox Catalysis in Biomedical Research

The emergence of photochemical tools for monitoring and controlling biochemical processes has transformed the landscape of life science research. Among these innovations, especially appealing are those involving photoredox catalysis. While originally coined for its applications in organic synthesis, photoredox catalysis has recently transitioned into the biomedical domain, influencing areas such as bioconjugation, proximity protein labeling, protein-protein interactions, and even applications in cancer treatment and antibacterial therapies. These advancements not only broaden the scope of photocatalytic techniques but also establish a robust foundation for their integration into complex biological systems. Despite these exciting developments, however, the interdisciplinary nature of photoredox catalysis can be daunting, potentially hindering new researchers from entering this dynamic field. Thus, there is a compelling need for an inclusive review that consolidates the biomedical applications of photoredox catalysis to address existing knowledge disparities. This Perspective aims to serve as a clear and systematic resource for a diverse audience, including specialists and nonspecialists alike, to enhance the understanding of photoredox catalysis' history, application, and pivotal roles in biomedicine. By an in-depth analysis of this progress and existing challenges, we hope to offer a reference guide for researchers, thereby promoting the evolution of photoredox catalysis into a widely applicable biomedical technology.