Research
Molecular Electro- and Photocatalytic Systems for Energy Conversion
Our primary focus in this project is the development of molecular transition metal complexes that can catalyze crucial photo-driven or electro-driven energy-converting reactions. These include CO2 reduction, H2 evolution, and water oxidation. We are particularly interested in the exploration of bimetallic molecular electro- and photocatalytic systems to perform CO2 reduction reaction. By harnessing the synergistic effects between metal centers, we aim to fine-tune catalysis and produce products beyond two-electron reduction. This research will provide valuable design principles for the development of catalytic systems for renewable energy production.
Artificial Enzymes for Catalysis
In this project, our objective is to design and synthesize molecular cages decorated with diverse functional groups, catalytic centers, and hydrogen bonding networks. These molecular cages, which we term “artificial enzymes”, aim to mimic the functionalities of natural enzymes. By offering a confined space similar to that found in natural enzymes, they protect reaction centers, enable specific substrate recognition, and reduce the reaction barriers for targeted products. This results in enzyme-like reaction efficiency and selectivity. In the current phase, we are particularly interested in developing molecular cages capable of performing enzyme-like tandem catalysis, such as hydrogen evolution reactions coupled with the photooxidation of alcohols. Additionally, we are working on bioinspired cages featuring Cu centers to mimic the behavior of the particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO) for C–H hydroxylation.
Photoactive Carbene Complexes for Anticancer Therapy
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) relies on photoactive drug candidates that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon photoexcitation to selectively damage cancer cells. Many current PDT drugs in clinical trials are based on precious metals, which can increase the cost of treatment and pose dark toxicity risks for healthy cells. Our research focuses on the development of photoactive first-row transition metal carbene complexes that have the potential to be used in photodynamic anticancer therapy. These complexes are designed to contain only earth-abundant elements, resulting in lower dark toxicity and more affordable cancer treatment options. The abundance and synthetic versatility of carbene ligands provide ample opportunities for structural and functional modifications, enabling us to develop highly effective PDT drug candidates.