PHOTOCATALYSIS FOR ANTIMICROBIAL AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Photocatalysis has emerged as a promising interdisciplinary approach for antimicrobial and therapeutic applications. Light-activated semiconductor materials generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can effectively inactivate microorganisms and damage diseased cells. These properties enable photocatalytic systems to be applied in water and air disinfection, antimicrobial coatings, and medical devices. Recent advances in nanotechnology have improved the efficiency of photocatalysts through material modification, plasmonic enhancement, and hybrid nanostructures. Photocatalysis is also gaining attention in biomedical fields such as photodynamic cancer therapy and theranostic platforms. Despite these advances, challenges related to biocompatibility, light penetration, and targeted selectivity remain. Continued research integrating nanotechnology and biomedical science may enable the development of safe and effective photocatalytic healthcare technologies.