Bioorthogonal photocatalytic magnetic nanorobots for targeted therapy

Objective

Bioorthogonal chemistry enables the manipulation of biological systems without interfering with native processes and has revolutionized medicine and chemical biology. However, current bioorthogonal transformations remain restricted to a narrow range of stoichiometric, bond-cleaving reactions. There is therefore an unmet need for catalytic, bond-forming, and stimuli-responsive processes capable of inducing amplified and controllable biological effects. BiPhoMag project aims to address this challenge by developing visible-light-driven catalytic bioorthogonal reactions mediated by multifunctional hybrid nanorobots. Specifically, core–shell iron oxide–silica nanoparticles will be engineered and functionalized with tunable, biocompatible organic photocatalysts. This design will enable spatiotemporal control of reactivity through the combined application of external light and magnetic fields. The proposed methodology involves: (i) the fabrication and characterization of hybrid nanorobots; (ii) demonstration of efficient bond-forming photocatalysis under biologically relevant conditions; and (iii) validation of their functionality in living cells. By integrating heterogeneous catalysis, external actuation, and nanoparticle-mediated targeting, this project will establish a robust platform for photocatalytic bioorthogonal transformations under physiological conditions. The expected impact of BiPhoMag is the creation of a new generation of photocatalytic tools with high precision and controllability, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies and advanced molecular manipulation in living systems.