Redox-switchable dyes offer tunable fluorescence for advanced bioimaging and optical applications

Fluorescent molecules that absorb and emit light in the near-infrared (NIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) regions have significant potential for various applications. These molecules can serve as markers for imaging biological tissues deep within the body, enhance solar cell efficiency by capturing more sunlight, or be incorporated into laser-protection eyewear to block harmful radiation from reaching the eyes. However, designing organic compounds with strong NIR emission is challenging.