Gold-modified nanoporous silicon for photoelectrochemical regulation of intracellular condensates

Nano-enabled catalysis at the metal-semiconductor interface has found numerous applications, but its role in mediating cellular responses is largely unexplored. We examined the mechanism through which a nanoporous silicon-based photocatalyst facilitates two-electron oxidation of water to generate hydrogen peroxide under physiological conditions. Precise modulation of intracellular stress granule formation via controlled photoelectrochemical H₂O₂ production in the extracellular environment enhanced cellular resilience to significant oxidative stress. This strategy was evaluated for efficacy in treating myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in an ex vivo rodent model, where a pretreatment regimen mitigated functional decline and infarction — highlighting the biomedical potential of nanostructured semiconductor-based catalytic devices.

Recommended citation: Jing Zhang, Pengju Li, Jiping Yue, Lingyuan Meng, Wen Li, et al., Bozhi Tian. (2025). "Gold-modified nanoporous silicon for photoelectrochemical regulation of intracellular condensates." Nature Nanotechnology.
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