Photochemistry in Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology

J Med Chem. 2024 Mar 28;67(6):4322-4345. doi: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02109. Epub 2024 Mar 8.

Abstract

Photochemistry has emerged as a transformative force in organic chemistry, significantly expanding the chemical space accessible for medicinal chemistry. Light-induced reactions enable the efficient synthesis of intricate organic structures and have found applications throughout the different stages of the drug discovery and development processes. Moreover, photochemical techniques provide innovative solutions in chemical biology, allowing precise spatiotemporal drug activation and targeted delivery. In this Perspective, we highlight the already numerous remarkable applications and the even more promising future of photochemistry in medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biology
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical* / methods
  • Drug Discovery* / methods
  • Photochemistry