Photofunctional transition metal complexes as cellular probes, bioimaging reagents and phototherapeutics

Abstract

By virtue of their rich photophysical and photochemical properties, transition metal complexes (TMCs) have been extensively studied in multidisciplinary research. In this review, recent studies on TMCs for biological applications are described with a focus on the behaviour of TMCs as specific intracellular sensors and organelle-targeting imaging reagents. Some prominent examples of TMCs as photosensitisers for in vitro and in vivo phototherapies, such as photodynamic therapy and photoactivated chemotherapy, are highlighted. Also, future development of TMCs for new diagnostic and therapeutic applications is discussed.