1. Porphyrin-Based Materials for Photodegradation and Photoelectrocatalysis
We design and synthesize novel porphyrin derivatives for applications in light- and electron-driven catalysis. Porphyrins are exceptional photosensitizers capable of generating singlet oxygen (¹O₂) and reactive radicals under visible light, enabling efficient photodegradation of organic pollutants and photoelectrocatalytic transformations. Our research explores how structural modifications and electronic tuning of porphyrins can enhance their performance in environmental remediation and solar-to-chemical energy conversion.
2. DNA–Porphyrin Catalysts for Bioapplications
By integrating porphyrins with DNA nanostructures, especially G-quadruplex (G4) DNA, we construct biomimetic catalysts that emulate heme-containing enzymes. These hybrid systems exhibit unique redox activity, selectivity, and biocompatibility, making them promising for applications in biosensing, biocatalysis, and therapeutic diagnostics. We particularly investigate DNA/heme complexes as minimal enzyme mimics, advancing understanding of structure–function relationships in biomolecular catalysis.
3. Mechanochemistry and Solvent-Free Green Synthesis
To address the need for sustainable chemistry, we utilize mechanochemical methods—such as ball milling and mortar grinding—to perform organic reactions without solvents. These energy-efficient, environmentally friendly techniques enable the scalable synthesis of complex molecules and materials, including porphyrins and macrocycles, while minimizing waste and hazardous reagents. Our goal is to create greener pathways for synthesizing functional materials and catalysts.