Lighting the Path: Light Delivery Strategies to Activate Photoresponsive Biomaterials In Vivo

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Date
2021
Volume
31
Issue
50
Journal
Series Titel
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Publisher
Weinheim : Wiley-VCH
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Abstract

Photoresponsive biomaterials are experiencing a transition from in vitro models to in vivo demonstrations that point toward clinical translation. Dynamic hydrogels for cell encapsulation, light-responsive carriers for controlled drug delivery, and nanomaterials containing photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy are relevant examples. Nonetheless, the step to the clinic largely depends on their combination with technologies to bring light into the body. This review highlights the challenge of photoactivation in vivo, and presents strategies for light management that can be adopted for this purpose. The authors’ focus is on technologies that are materials-driven, particularly upconversion nanoparticles that assist in “direct path” light delivery through tissue, and optical waveguides that “clear the path” between external light source and in vivo target. The authors’ intention is to assist the photoresponsive biomaterials community transition toward medical technologies by presenting light delivery concepts that can be integrated with the photoresponsive targets. The authors also aim to stimulate further innovation in materials-based light delivery platforms by highlighting needs and opportunities for in vivo photoactivation of biomaterials. © 2021 The Authors. Advanced Functional Materials published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.

Description
Keywords
biomaterials, photoactivation, photoresponsive, upconversion nanoparticles, waveguides
Citation
Pearson, S., Feng, J., & del Campo, A. (2021). Lighting the Path: Light Delivery Strategies to Activate Photoresponsive Biomaterials In Vivo. 31(50). https://doi.org//10.1002/adfm.202105989
License
CC BY-NC 4.0 Unported