Photoactive nanomaterials represent a dynamic and rapidly evolving area within nanobiotechnology, offering unique opportunities to manipulate cellular and molecular responses through precise spatiotemporal control. In recent years, the integration of these light-responsive nanostructures with biological systems has opened new horizons for diagnosis, therapy, and regenerative medicine. Yet, the optimal translation of photoactive nanomaterials into biomedical practice is challenged by complexities in biosafety, functionalization, efficient delivery, and real-time monitoring. Key questions revolve around how to enhance biocompatibility, maximize photo-efficacy, and minimize toxicity, while ensuring controllable activation and targeted responses within living systems.
Recent studies have demonstrated remarkable progress in developing photoactive nanoparticles for applications such as targeted photothermal therapy, controlled drug release, advanced imaging, and the engineering of smart nanobiosensors. Innovations in synthesis and functionalization have improved the specificity, tunability, and multifunctionality of these nanomaterials, allowing for better adaptation to complex biological environments. Moreover, advancements in imaging and characterization have enabled real-time tracking of nanomaterial behaviors in vitro and in vivo. Nevertheless, challenges remain, particularly in understanding long-term biological effects, optimizing device integration, and establishing standardized regulatory paths for clinical use.
This Research Topic aims to consolidate cutting-edge findings on the design, mechanisms, and biomedical applications of photoactive nanomaterials. The objective is to spotlight novel approaches that leverage photoactivation for diagnostics, therapeutic interventions, and tissue engineering, as well as to identify persistent barriers to clinical translation. Submissions are encouraged to address fundamental knowledge gaps, propose new hypotheses, and explore transdisciplinary strategies for advancing light-driven nanodevices in medicine.
To gather further insights into the relationship between photoactive nanomaterials and their biomedical utility, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Innovative synthesis and characterization of photoactive nanomaterials - Light-controlled drug delivery and release systems - Photothermal and photodynamic therapies based on nanotechnology - Real-time imaging and monitoring with photoactive nanoprobes - Biocompatibility, nanotoxicology, and safety profiles of photoactive systems - Design of nanobiosensors and diagnostic devices activated by light - Integration of photoactive nanomaterials with organ-on-chip and smart biomaterials - Translational, regulatory, and clinical perspectives for biomedical applications
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Case Report
Data Report
Editorial
FAIR² Data
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Methods
Mini Review
Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.
Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
