What Types of Catalysis are Utilized in Targeted Therapy?
- Enzymatic Catalysis: Enzymes are biological catalysts that can be engineered to target specific biomolecules. Enzymatic catalysis is often used in enzyme replacement therapies and the activation of prodrugs. - Metal Catalysis: Transition metals like platinum, palladium, and gold can act as catalysts in various biochemical reactions. These are often used in designing drugs that can activate or deactivate specific proteins involved in cancer progression. - Photocatalysis: In this approach, light energy is used to activate the catalyst, which can then interact with the target molecule. This method is particularly useful in photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment.