Light-triggered bactericidal semiconductor nanomaterials: classification, modification and antibacterial strategies

Recent reports suggested that light-triggered semiconductor nanomaterials have emerged as highly efficient antibacterial theranostic nanoplatforms, with low toxicity, eco-friendly properties, and high energy conversion efficiency. Compared to conventional antibiotic agents, the light-triggered semiconductor nanomaterials provide an insight into their biomedical applications and highlight their advantages in the field of antibacterial therapy. Semiconductor nanotheranostic agents possess strong light absorption capacity, suitable bandwidth, and physicochemical properties that enable them to effectively damage bacterial structure through photothermal conversion or catalysis upon light irradiation. Herein, the present overview provides a comprehensive summary of various semiconductor nanomaterials that integrate photothermal conversion and photocatalysis for combating bacteria. Additionally, potential obstacles and prospects for antibacterial application are further discussed to enhance the practical implementation and industrial transformation of these promising semiconductor nano- compounds in the future.