PhD Thesis Defense | Davide Arena

Bright Shining Single-Chain Nanoparticles: Advanced Applications in Photocatalysis and Photodynamic Therapy

September 27, 11:00

CFM Auditorium

Candidate: Davide Arena

Supervisors:  Prof. Josetxo Pomposo and Dr. Ester Verde

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Summary

This thesis explores the intersection of single-chain nanoparticle (SCNP) technology and photocatalysis, aiming to develop advanced light-harvesting SCNPs for novel applications. The research focuses on utilizing the unique topology of SCNPs for organic photocatalysis in water and for photodynamic therapy (PDT) in cancer treatment. The initial chapters provide a review of SCNPs’ synthesis via RAFT polymerization and an overview of organic photocatalysis, particularly the challenges of using water as a solvent. Recent efforts to create low-impact, water-based photocatalytic processes are highlighted, setting the stage for the experimental work presented.

The experimental chapters report the creation of SCNPs with photocatalytic properties, particularly an iridium(III)-based SCNP, which efficiently catalyzes organic reactions in water. This “artificial photosynthase” (APS) system was tested for several reactions, including photo[2+2] cycloaddition and oxidation of anthracenes, showing enzyme-like efficiency. Additionally, another SCNP-based system, the “artificial photo-oxidase” (APO), was developed for PDT applications. The APO system, encapsulating a zinc(II)-phthalocyanine complex, demonstrated high efficiency in inducing oxidative stress in cancer cells, proving effective in human breast cancer models and zebrafish xenografts. The work demonstrates the potential of SCNPs as nano-objects with tailored photocatalytic properties for both organic synthesis and medical applications.