# X-ray and NIR Induced Photochemistry in UV-Vis Opaque Media

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Georgia Research Foundation Inc (GA) · $380,000

## Abstract

In this project, funded by the Chemical Mechanism, Function, and Properties Program of the Chemistry Division, Professor Vladimir Popik of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Georgia is developing a novel strategy for selective activation of bioactive compounds using Near Infrared (NIR) light or low level X-ray radiation. While a significant fraction of diseases is localized in some organ or tissue, the treatment is often systemic, causing undesirable off-target effects. Most obvious example of such complications is the toxic effects of anti-cancer drugs, but even treatment of arthritic inflammation with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increases the chances of a heart attack or stomach ulcer. The use of tissue-penetrating X-ray or NIR for drug activation may allow for the selective treatment of localized malignancies, while sparing the rest of the organism from harmful side effects. This project studies the fundamental feasibility of such an approach and its potential impact in photochemistry. The project provides students with an interdisciplinary training at the interface of synthetic and physical organic chemistry, as well as photochemistry, biochemistry, and nano-technology. High school students conducting summer internships in the Professor Popik's laboratory via the University of Georgia Young Dawgs Program will be exposed to modern scientific research.

While photomedicine offers high spatiotemporal selectivity in the treatment of various 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2451821
- **Awardee organization:** University of Georgia Research Foundation Inc (GA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NMJHD63STRC5
- **PI:** Vladimir V Popik
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Biotechnology
- **Estimated total:** $380,000
- **Funds obligated:** $380,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2451821

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2451821, X-ray and NIR Induced Photochemistry in UV-Vis Opaque Media. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2451821. Licensed CC0.

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