Challenges and Emerging Trends in Photopharmacology
A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmacology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 April 2025 | Viewed by 32
Special Issue Editors
Interests: TRPC channels; neurophysiology; photopharmacology
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Photopharmacology, which integrates light-based technologies with pharmacology to control biological processes, presents significant potential, especially in the precise modulation of ion channels and receptors. By allowing spatiotemporal control over their activity via light-responsive compounds, this approach promises to transform our understanding of conformational changes in proteins, protein–ligand interactions, and therapeutic applications in neurology, immunology, and cardiology. However, several challenges must be addressed to unlock its full potential. One major obstacle is the development of photopharmaceuticals with high specificity, stability, and reversibility under physiological conditions, particularly for ion channels and receptors. Effective light penetration into deep tissues, while avoiding phototoxicity and damage to surrounding cells, also remains a critical challenge. Furthermore, transitioning from in vitro success to in vivo applications is complicated by the complexity of biological systems and the difficulty in accurately targeting specific tissues or cellular compartments. Nevertheless, emerging trends are advancing the field. Innovations in two-photon activation, near-infrared light-responsive molecules, and nanotechnology are improving tissue penetration and targeting. Additionally, the integration of photopharmacology with optogenetics and gene-editing technologies offers exciting prospects for the precise regulation of ion channels, receptors, and other proteins. As research continues to progress, photopharmacology holds significant potential to impact precision medicine, especially in treating cardiovascular disorders, immune conditions, and neurodegenerative diseases. While challenges remain, the ongoing advancements in photopharmacology are pushing the boundaries of therapeutic innovation, expanding the possibilities for targeted, light-controlled medical interventions.
Dr. Oleksandra Tiapko
Dr. Bernadett Bacsa
Guest Editors
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Keywords
- photopharmacology
- ion channels
- receptors
- protein–ligand interactions
- precision medicine
- optogenetics
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