Phototherapeutic antibacterial applications of porphyrin-based metal–organic frameworks

Abstract

In recent years, photosensitizer-based phototherapy has gained increasing attention in antibacterial applications due to its low cost, noninvasive nature, and low drug resistance. Among various materials, porphyrin-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have demonstrated great potential, due to their good biocompatibility, facile designability, and excellent light absorption capabilities that enable highly efficient antibacterial efficacy. However, further optimization of their antibacterial performance remains a key challenge. This review summarizes recent progress in the antibacterial applications of porphyrin-based MOFs across multiple fields, including wound healing, food packaging, personal healthcare, and wastewater treatment. Several strategies to enhance their antibacterial activity are discussed, such as tuning metal nodes, adjusting the MOF size and morphology, modifying ligand structures, and constructing MOF–metal heterojunctions. Combination therapies have also been employed to improve the efficiency of phototherapeutic antibacterial activity. In addition, this review highlights their application potential for personalized medicine through precise bacterial detection. It also covers the integration of porphyrin-based MOFs into textiles and packaging materials, as well as their use in environmental remediation, such as the photoreduction of organic pollutants and heavy metals. By systematically reviewing these advancements, we aim to inspire further exploration of porphyrin-based MOFs in diverse applications and provide new design strategies for developing effective antibacterial products. This review emphasizes the versatility and promising future of porphyrin-based MOFs as a multifunctional platform in both medical and environmental fields.