Metal complex strategies for photo-uncaging the small molecule bioregulators nitric oxide and carbon monoxide

Photochemical release (uncaging) of small molecule bioregulators (SMBs) such as nitric oxide (NO) or carbon monoxide (CO) at physiological sites offers exquisite control of timing, location and dosage. However, photo-uncaging faces two major problems that challenge its therapeutic applications: the relatively poor transmision of visible light through tissue and the need to deliver the appropriate precursors to the desired targets. In this brief review are discussed research activities that address these issues of spatial-temporal control. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.