Near-Infrared Responsive Nanomaterials for the Regulation of Ion Channel Function

Ion channels are responsible for the propagation and integration of electrical signals in physiological processes. Overactivation or dysfunction of ion channel plays an important role in physiological and pathological processes and is an important research object for disease treatment. With the widespread application of optical technologies of near infrared (NIR) light responsive materials, the precise regulation of biological processes through optical control, featuring noninvasive, remote control, and high flexibility, has penetrated the physiological processes. In recent years, an increasing number of light-stimulated materials have been developed and utilized, with stable properties, easy modification, and sensitive response, enabling precise control of biological processes at the forefront of biomedical research. This review summarizes NIR responsive materials in ion channel regulation and elucidates their action mechanism in regulating ion channel-related diseases. It is hoped that this review can provide foundation of research for future light-stimulated materials, promote the application of light-stimulated materials in biomedical engineering, and be useful for clinical disease treatment. This review provides an overview of the various types of near-infrared (NIR) responsive materials that are used to regulate ion channel function, including their interaction with ion channel proteins. The article also introduces in detail the research strategy of employing NIR responsive materials for regulating ion channel function in disease treatment. Finally, it summarizes the current status and existing challenges of utilizing NIR light-responsive materials to regulate ion channels in biomedical engineering.image