This review describes the two-photon absorption properties of dendrimers, which are arborescent three-dimensional macromolecules differing from polymers by their perfectly defined structure. The two-photon absorption process is a third order non-linear optical property that is attractive because it can be used in a wide range of applications. In this review, dendrimers that were studied for their two-photon absorption properties are first described. Then, the use of dendritic TPA chromophores for light harvesting, photopolymerization, optical power limitation, cell imaging, singlet oxygen generation, and photodynamic therapy is described. This review thus proposes an overview of the properties and possible applications of two-photon absorbing dendrimers.
Keywords: bioimaging; dendrimer; light harvesting; optical power limitation; photodynamic therapy; photopolymerization; photosensitizer; two-photon absorption.