Photosensitizer compounds for antiviral and antibacterial oxygen activation under visible light
A library of organic chromophore photosensitizers designed for photoinactivation of viruses and bacteria via singlet oxygen generation under visible light. Includes photostable and photobleachable options soluble in water or organic solvents, with singlet oxygen quantum yields ranging from 20 to 60%.
Overview
This offering provides access to a specialized library of organic chromophore photosensitizers developed for antiviral and antibacterial applications. These compounds generate singlet oxygen upon exposure to visible or near-infrared light, enabling effective photoinactivation of viruses and bacteria on various surfaces. The library includes both photostable and photobleachable compounds, providing flexibility depending on the application requirements. Compounds are available in formulations soluble in either water or organic solvents, making them adaptable to diverse use cases in disinfection, sterilization, and surface treatment.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Compound classes: Porphyrins, phthalocyanines, BODIPYs, aza-BODIPYs, proprietary Manitoba Dipyrromethenes (MB-DIPYs), beta-isoindigos, and beta-isoindigo-dipyrromethenes
- Singlet oxygen quantum yields: Ranging between 20% and 60%
- Activation wavelength: Visible to near-infrared light
- Solubility options: Water-soluble and organic solvent-soluble formulations
- Stability profiles: Both photostable and photobleachable variants available
- Validation methods: Singlet oxygen production confirmed via 1,3-diphenylisobenzofuran marker assay and direct measurement of singlet oxygen phosphorescence in the near-infrared spectral region
Applications include:
- Surface disinfection and sterilization
- Antiviral and antibacterial treatment of materials
- Integration into coatings, films, or treatment solutions
- Custom compound synthesis tailored to specific industry needs
Technology readiness level
The photosensitizer library is at an advanced research and development stage. Core compounds have been validated through standard photochemical methodologies confirming singlet oxygen generation. The research group has published more than 230 peer-reviewed papers in functional dyes, demonstrating deep expertise. Future validation activities include preparing and investigating a broader array of organic chromophores to determine specific photo-stabilities and quantum yields based on partner requirements. The technology is ready for sponsored research collaborations to tailor compounds for specific commercial applications and co-development partnerships to advance toward product integration.
About University of Tennessee, Knoxville
UT offers a partnership model that reduces risk, accelerates time-to-value, and supports long-term growth strategies for industry—providing an attractive platform for companies seeking to formalize collaboration and establish a long-term presence in the East Tennessee region. By aligning institutional investment with regional and national priorities, UT provides a stable and effective platform for industry collaboration, technology deployment, and sustained economic impact.
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