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Keywords:

  • artificial photosynthesis;
  • bioinorganic chemistry;
  • coordination chemistry;
  • enzyme catalysis;
  • photochemistry

Graphical Abstract

Thumbnail image of graphical abstract

Bio-inspired chemistry! Photochemical key steps (see figure) provide a versatile tool for the remote control of chemical and biological processes. Many challenging reactions, which otherwise could hardly be achieved at all, are readily triggered and powered by photons. This Concept article explores the design principles and potential applications of biomimetic catalysis based on photoresponsive molecular systems.

Abstract

Bio-inspired chemistry based on photoresponsive molecules is a rapidly developing new strategy to mimic the function of various biological systems. The interaction of electromagnetic radiation with molecular systems is ideally suited for the control and powering of dynamic processes at the speed of light. Besides typical applications in artificial photosynthesis, many other aspects, such as the catalytic turnover of substrates or the controlled release or uptake of small bioactive molecules, are readily verified with light-driven model systems. The potential of this novel approach in biomimetic chemistry is briefly explored in this concept article.