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Photoswitchable Small Molecules for Cancer Therapeutics: Mechanisms, Advances, and Challenges
Shaukeen Ali1, Kartikay Tyagi1, V Venkatesh1
1Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India.
Chemistry, an Asian Journal
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Researchers are developing photoswitchable anticancer agents that change shape under light. This allows for targeted drug delivery and enhanced antiproliferative activity, offering new therapeutic strategies for various cancer types.
Area of Science:
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Photochemistry
- Oncology
Background:
- The spatial arrangement of functional groups in bioactive molecules dictates target affinity.
- External stimuli like light can modulate this spatial distribution.
- Photoswitches undergo light-induced isomerization, altering molecular shape and affinity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in photoswitchable anticancer agents.
- To highlight the design of small molecules utilizing light-induced isomerization for cancer therapy.
- To discuss agents showing differential antiproliferative activity based on isomeric form.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing isomerization across a double bond triggered by UV or visible light.
- Designing small-molecule-based photoswitchable anticancer agents.
- Compiling recent research and development in this therapeutic area.
Main Results:
- Photoswitchable agents demonstrate altered antiproliferative activity in different isomeric forms.
- Light can be used to control the activation and affinity of these anticancer agents.
- Development of potent therapeutics for a spectrum of cancer types is progressing.
Conclusions:
- Photoswitchable anticancer agents represent a promising therapeutic strategy.
- Light-mediated control over drug isomerism offers targeted cancer treatment potential.
- Continued research in this field is crucial for developing novel cancer therapeutics.
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